Oldest DNA Reveals Life In Greenland 2 Million Years Ago
December 7, 2022 9:34AM PST
Credit: MGN
NEW YORK (AP) – Scientists have discovered the oldest known DNA and used it to reveal what life was like 2 million years ago in the northern tip of Greenland.
Today, it’s a barren Arctic desert.
But back then it was a lush landscape of trees and vegetation with an array of animals, even the now extinct mastodon.
The study published Wednesday looks at environmental DNA – bits of genetic material that organisms leave in their surroundings.
By studying these tiny pieces, scientists found an unusual mix of species, with reindeer and geese perhaps living alongside mastodons.
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