The little bush moa, a turkey-sized emu lookalike, is believed to have become extinct in the 1200s. Due to their extinction, not much is known about the life of these creatures. However, a recent study has shed some light on the bush moa’s existence by sequencing its genome. This process involved extracting DNA from a single bush moa toe bone and piecing together the genetic information.
The genome sequencing revealed interesting insights into the bush moa’s sensory abilities. It was found that they had four types of cone photoreceptors in their eyes, allowing them to see colors and ultraviolet light despite having small eyes. Additionally, the genome suggested that the bush moa had a full set of taste receptors, indicating they could taste flavors like umami.
One of the potential implications of studying the bush moa’s genome is understanding the evolution of flightless birds. The absence of certain bones found in birds with wings in the moa’s genetic map could provide clues about how flightlessness developed in these birds.
While some may wonder if the bush moa could be brought back to life using its genome sequence, the researchers involved in the study emphasize that the goal is to enhance our understanding of this fascinating species. The focus is on unraveling the natural history of the bush moa rather than attempting to resurrect it.
The study, led by Scott V. Edwards from Harvard University, was published in Science Advances. By decoding the genetic information of the long-extinct bush moa, researchers have taken a significant step towards unraveling the mysteries of this unique bird species. The findings could pave the way for further research into the evolutionary history of flightless birds and provide valuable insights into the sensory world of extinct creatures.