“Uncovering the Genetic Impact of Hunting on Northern Elephant Seals: A New International Study Reveals Surprising Findings”

The new international study on the genetic impact of hunting in northern elephant seals has shed light on the lasting effects of near-extinction events on species’ genetic diversity and health. Led by researchers from Bielefeld University and published in Nature Ecology and Evolution, the study reveals how the population of northern elephant seals narrowly escaped extinction due to hunting in the early 20th century.

Professor Dr Joseph Hoffman, the lead author of the study, explains that genetic analyses suggest the population of northern elephant seals was reduced to fewer than 25 animals at one point. This drastic decline in population size can lead to a loss of genetic diversity, increasing the risk of inbreeding and threatening the survival of the species. Despite this, the population has since recovered to around 225,000 individuals.

The researchers combined genetic data, health records, population size modeling, and genetic simulations to analyze the impact of the near-extinction event on the species’ genetic diversity. They found that the severe population decline resulted in the loss of many beneficial and harmful genes from the gene pool of northern elephant seals, potentially impairing their adaptability to future environmental changes.

Professor Dr Kanchon K. Dasmahapatra, the senior author of the study, warns that the reduced genetic diversity in northern elephant seals may hinder their ability to cope with threats such as climate change, habitat changes, and disease outbreaks. Surprisingly, the researchers found no signs of health problems related to inbreeding in the seals, suggesting that the severe population decline may have eliminated harmful mutations.

The study highlights the importance of understanding a species’ population history in conservation efforts. Each species responds differently to threats, emphasizing the need for individualized conservation strategies. The findings offer valuable insights for species conservation and ecosystem management, underscoring the significance of preserving genetic diversity in wildlife populations.