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dipsydoodle

(42,239 posts)
Mon Jan 9, 2012, 01:32 PM Jan 2012

'Extinct' Galapagos tortoise may still exist

A giant Galapagos tortoise believed extinct for 150 years probably still exists, say scientists.

Chelonoidis elephantopus lived on the island of Floreana, and was heavily hunted, especially by whalers who visited the Galapagos to re-stock.

A Yale University team found hybrid tortoises on another island, Isabela, that appear to have C. elephantopus as one of their parents.

Some hybrids are only 15 years old, so their parents are likely to be alive.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-16467397

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