Rare Hawaiian Crow’s Genome Sequenced

The genome of the Extinct-in-the-Wild Hawaiian Crow, ‘Alalā, has been sequenced to aid scientists in conservation efforts. Many native Hawaiian plants, especially those in dry forests, rely on the crow for seed dispersal and germination.

Island Conservation Science Native Flora
Tree heliotrope, Heliotropium foertherianum, Hawaii native plant. Photo by Island Conservation

Facing increased threats from invasive species and disease, loss of habitat, and human activity the crow’s population once hit a dangerous low of 20 individuals. Scientist’s goal now is to increase the population size through captive breeding and reintroduction programs.

“Learning more about the genome of the species can help us understand more about how that species will interact with and fit back into its native habitat.” – Jolene Sutton, assistant professor at the University of Hawaii, Hilo.

Read the original article at Science Daily.

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