New genomic research rejects a contentious theory that ancient inhabitants of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) experienced population declines due to […]
Continue readingancient DNA
When did sweet potatoes arrive in the Pacific – Expert Reaction
New research has cast doubt on the theory that the presence of sweet potatoes in Polynesia indicates early contact with […]
Continue readingFinding and losing new bird species with ancient DNA — In The News
Ancient DNA has shed light on two extinct species this week, resulting in New Zealand claiming a new shag and […]
Continue readingExtinct sea lion discovered, raises by-catch concern – In the News
The discovery of an extinct sea lion from the Chatham Islands has researchers concerned that modern levels of by-catch could […]
Continue readingLittle penguins recent Aussie invaders – In the News
The little penguin species (popularly known as little blue penguins) found in southern New Zealand is a surprisingly recent invader […]
Continue readingDom Post: Kiwi helps to resurrect woolly mammoth blood
Kiran Chug writes in the Dominion Post about Wellingtonian Alan Cooper and his involvement in scientists’ recently announced ability to […]
Continue readingThe Press: Moa DNA gives up some secrets
Paul Gorman reports in The Press on the first successful isolation of DNA from ancient eggshell fossils by an international […]
Continue readingPenguin bones reveal long-lost species
The hoiho or yellow-eyed penguin, one of our most charismatic native species, was a stranger to New Zealand until just […]
Continue reading