<
https://theconversation.com/new-dna-testing-shatters-wild-dog-myth-most-dingoes-are-pure-206397>
"For decades, crossbreeding between dingoes and dogs has been considered the
greatest threat to dingo conservation. Previous DNA studies suggested pure
dingoes were virtually extinct in Victoria and New South Wales.
Reinforcing this belief, the term “wild dog” has replaced the word dingo in
most legislation and policy across Australia. “Wild dog” is a coverall term
defined as “any dog living in the wild, including feral dogs, dingoes and their
hybrids”. It’s the term used on signs in National Parks and other lands
advertising the target and presence of meat baits impregnated with the poison
1080. These baits are laid to reduce the risk of wild dogs preying on
livestock.
Our new research used the latest genetic testing methods to establish the
ancestry of wild dogs across Australia. Most of the 307 wild animals we tested
were pure dingoes. Only a small proportion of wild dingoes had dog ancestry,
probably from a great- or great-great-grandparent. There were no “first-cross”
(50/50) hybrids or feral dogs in our wild-caught sample.
Essentially, all the “wild dogs” were dingoes. The results challenge public
perceptions and call into question well established management practices. We
argue the term “wild dog” should be removed from public language and
legislation. Dingo and feral dog should be used instead. And the role of the
dingo as Australia’s apex predator should be restored, for we are the greatest
threat to their existence."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
