Despite signs of inbreeding and low genetic diversity, these factors alone could not explain their extinction. Instead, the study, published in the journal Cell, highlights the instability of small populations facing environmental change, suggesting that a random event likely led to their extinction.
“What happened in the end is still a mystery; we don’t know why they went extinct after living more or less well for 6,000 years, but we think it was something sudden,” says one of the study’s authors. “I would say there is still hope in finding out why they went extinct, but there are no promises.”
This research not only deepens the understanding of mammoth population dynamics but also informs modern conservation efforts. Lessons learned from these ancient creatures could help develop strategies for endangered species today, scientists write.
Source: Ferra
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