Scientists genetically modify Victorian lizard

March 10, 2025 7:36 PM

One of Australia's smallest skinks has undergone a big genetic change in an attempt to fight the risk of extinction due to climate change. Biologists bred and released four tiny genetically modified Guthega skinks in an outdoor enclosure on Victoria's High Country in December. It is one step away before the tiny lizards are released into the greater wild when biologists are hopeful the offspring of the critters can be set free in about a year.
posted by chariot pulled by cassowaries (6 comments total)

Someone tried this in Texas in the 50's
posted by Pink Fuzzy Bunny at 9:47 PM on March 10

Vastra?
posted by Rat Spatula at 9:52 PM on March 10 [1 favorite]

The genetic modifications are tiny and seem safe, so maybe a good way to extend these important creatures. I'm wary about this meddling with nature in general, though. I assume they know what they're doing, but so did Drs Grant and Wu, apparently.
posted by dg at 10:01 PM on March 10

Title was so confusing first thing in the morning. Like why are they genetically modifying a lizard from the Victorian era because that is one old lizard!
posted by Captain_Science at 4:46 AM on March 11 [2 favorites]

I heart skinks. Always have.
posted by kozad at 8:08 AM on March 11

who had Skinkzilla on their bingo card for this year

congratulations, you've made off like a bandit
posted by ginger.beef at 9:31 AM on March 11