What is the primary challenge cited regarding obtaining a complete genome for Thylacoleo de-extinction from fossils?
Answer
Obtaining a complete, uncontaminated genome from a 46,000-year-old specimen
While de-extinction is a topic of discussion, the genetic challenge for *Thylacoleo* is immense due to its age. Obtaining a full, uncontaminated genome from ancient bone that is 46,000 years old is exceptionally difficult. DNA fragments degrade over such long periods, and contamination from environmental or handling sources makes piecing together the necessary complete sequence for viable resurrection a major hurdle in genomics.
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