De-extinction: Is it really good thing?

The extinction of the bucardo, also known as the Pyrenean ibex, in 2000 was a devastating loss for conservationists around the world. Celia, the last bucardo, was found dead in Spain, marking the end of a species that had once roamed the mountains of the Pyrenees.

However, there was a glimmer of hope amidst the grief. Scientists had collected and preserved some of Celia's cells before her death, giving them the opportunity to try and bring the species back from extinction through cloning. 

In 2003, attempts were made to clone Celia using her preserved cells. Despite the challenges, one bucardo was successfully born, making history as the first species to return from extinction. Unfortunately, the baby bucardo died shortly after birth, but the achievement of bringing the species back, even briefly, was a significant milestone in conservation efforts.

Colossal Biosciences, a de-extinction company founded in 2021, is now working on bringing back three other extinct species: the woolly mammoth, the Tasmanian tiger, and the dodo. Their mission is to create a better world for the planet, the animals, and the future. While their efforts are noble, there are concerns about the implications of de-extinction on the ecosystem and the animals themselves.

Bringing back extinct species raises questions about the ethics of playing "creator" and the impact of reintroducing these animals into habitats that may have changed drastically since their extinction. Some experts argue that de-extinction could disrupt ecosystems, introduce new diseases, and ultimately harm existing species.

Also, the extinct species like mammoth might not survive in today's world even if they brought back to life.

Additionally, the resources and funding required for de-extinction projects could be better spent on protecting and preserving endangered species that are still alive today.

While the idea of resurrecting extinct species may seem like a scientific breakthrough, there are ethical, environmental, and practical considerations that must be taken into account.

As we continue to push the boundaries of science and technology, it is important to consider the implications of our actions on the world around us. 

Conservation efforts should focus on protecting and preserving the species that are currently at risk of extinction, rather than attempting to bring back those that have already been lost.