Which distinct, smaller yellow-eyed penguin subspecies was found via ancient DNA analysis on the Chatham Islands?
Answer
M. a. richdalei.
Ancient DNA analysis performed on prehistoric bones excavated from the Chatham Islands provided compelling evidence of a yellow-eyed penguin subspecies that was both distinct and smaller than the currently recognized forms. This extinct lineage was formally designated as M. a. richdalei. The discovery serves as a sobering reminder of past vulnerability, as this specific subspecies became extinct relatively shortly after humans established presence in the area, highlighting the acute susceptibility of island-bound species to novel disruptions introduced by humans, even after surviving millennia of natural isolation.
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