DNA Testing – Origin Of The Species

Darwin’s perennial masterpiece ‘Origin of the Species’ may have been written before the advent of DNA testing but he would no doubt be delighted with the breakthroughs DNA testing has brought about.

Charles Darwin is, of course, a luminary in the field of evolutionary science but even he couldn’t have predicted how much the use of DNA testing would benefit scientists in their quests to discover new species throughout the world. Even today, it is argued by experts, up to 90% of the creatures on earth remain unknown. DNA testing is doing its part to redress this imbalance.

DNA Testing – Story Of A Big Cat

DNA testing has been used to discover an entirely new species of big cat which was found on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra. Scientists studied the cat’s DNA and found out that it was, in fact, an entirely different species from its closely related cousins. The rare clouded leopard was thought to be the same as those found on mainland South East Asia but DNA testing proved this not to be the case. Stephen O’Brien, head of the Laboratory of Genomic Diversity said, “DNA testing highlighted around 40 differences between the two species”. Stuart Chapman of WWF summed up the scientist’s findings very well by stating, “Who said a leopard could never change its spots?”

DNA Testing – New Species Discovered Daily

DNA testing has revolutionised the way we look at our world as it is frequently discovering new species living amongst us. The discovery of the clouded leopard in Borneo is far from an isolated incident and here are just some of the most recent species to be have been uncovered by DNA testing:

• 8 Unknown Species Found In Cave – A cave in Israel, isolated from the outside world for millions of years, recently provided a treasure trove of new species. DNA testing showed the creatures to be related to scorpions and shrimps.
• Tanzanian Monkey – A new species of monkey was unearthed in Tanzania in 2006 and DNA testing showed it to be the first new genus of living primate from Africa in 83 years.
• Leaf Deer – A new species of deer, a mere 20 inches tall at the shoulder, was discovered to be completely unique from its counterparts through DNA testing. The leaf deer is the world’s smallest deer.

Speak To International Bioscience About DNA Testing

International Biosciences offer a broad range of DNA Testing services designed to provide indisputable answers to emotional questions. Whether you seek to establish paternity, prove siblingship or research genealogy, for legal definition or peace of mind, we are able to provide the appropriate DNA testing at competitive rates, professionally and confidentially. Using state of the art technology we are able to provide conclusive evidence on time, every time. Contact International Biosciences on 01342 850945 or click here to email us.

<< Back to DNA Testing articles