Saving the Asian unicorn—if it still exists: Saola genome mapped for first time

Is the Elusive Asian Unicorn Extinct? New Evidence Gives Hope to Finding It

Learn how a breakthrough genetic study may help scientists locate and save one of Earth’s most elusive mammals.

“Asian unicorn” saola – not seen in wild since 2013 – could still be saved from extinction

The rare and endangered saola (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis). Credit: ©Toon Fey/WWF. The saola is a rare antelope-like mammal endemic to the forests of Vietnam and Laos. It hasn’t been seen in the wild since 2013, leading to it being nicknamed the “Asian unicorn” for its elusiveness. But scientists still think it can be saved from extinction. Saola (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis) are in the same group as buffalo, cows and antelope, but belong to their own …

Saving the Asian 'unicorn' -- if it still exists

The saola, an antelope-like bovine, is one of the world's rarest and most endangered mammals. In fact, it hasn't been observed in over 10 years. Researchers have now mapped the saola's complete genome, and they have used that knowledge to estimate the chances of saving it -- if it still exists.

It was a sensation when the saola – the Asian unicorn – was discovered back in 1992, and has not been seen since 2013. Now Danish DNA detectives have mapped its genome in minute detail, raising hope that the mysterious animal can be saved if it still exists on planet Earth.

Saving the Asian unicorn—if it still exists: Saola genome mapped for first time

Is it extinct, or does it still roam somewhere deep in the misty highland forests of Vietnam and Laos? It has been nicknamed the Asian unicorn due to its almost mythical rarity, and it is the most recently discovered large land mammal, becoming known to science as late as 1992.

We know almost nothing about it. We don't even know whether the animal still exists on earth or not. But scientists have now mapped its genome. And that could offer the saola – nicknamed 'the Asian unicorn' – a future. If it's not too late. Maybe you still have […] More science? Read the latest articles on Scientias.nl .