DNA sheds light on why largest lemurs disappeared

DNA extracted from the bones and teeth of giant lemurs that lived thousands of years ago in Madagascar may help explain why the animals went extinct, and what makes some lemurs more at risk today. Scientists have little doubt that humans played a role in the giant lemurs’ demise. Most scientists agree that humans played a role in the giant lemurs’ demise by hunting them for food and forcing them out of habitats. But an analysis of their DNA suggests that the largest lemurs were more prone to extinction than smaller-bodied species because of their smaller population sizes. By comparing the species that died out to those that survived, scientists hope to better predict which lemurs are most in need of protection in the future. The team found no link between body size and genetic diversity in lemur species living today the largest of which tip the scales at about 15 pounds. So they think that body size is less useful for establishing conservation priorities.