While mammoths are often depicted as massive, hairy elephants with towering tusks, the diversity within this group is more complex than commonly thought. Several species adapted to different environments across the globe, including some that thrived in temperate zones with less fur. Notably, at least three woolly mammoth species have been identified: the Eurasian steppe mammoth, the Arctic-adapted woolly mammoth, and the Columbian mammoth, which evolved late and was native to North America.

Due to their Arctic habitats, these mammoths have yielded well-preserved DNA samples, enabling scientists to reconstruct their genetic relationships. Findings suggest that the woolly mammoth evolved from the steppe mammoth lineage and was the first to migrate into North America. However, the genetic origins of the Columbian mammoth have been more puzzling. Some genetic data pointed to it being a direct offshoot of the steppe lineage, while other samples hinted at hybridization between woolly and steppe mammoth ancestors.

Most of these genetic studies have focused on mammoths from colder regions, where DNA preservation is optimal. In contrast, the Columbian mammoth inhabited warmer, more temperate environments, extending as far south as Central America. Recently, researchers successfully extracted genetic material from bones discovered in the Basin of Mexico, including Mexico City. These samples reveal a distinct genetic cluster among these Central American mammoths, indicating they are more closely related to each other than to their northern woolly or Columbian counterparts.

This discovery provides new insights into mammoth evolution, suggesting that Central American mammoths followed a unique evolutionary path, possibly involving localized adaptations or hybridization events. As research continues, understanding these genetic distinctions will shed light on how mammoths adapted to diverse climates and how their populations migrated and evolved over time.

Ethan Cole

I'm Ethan Cole, a tech journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories behind innovation. I write about emerging technologies, startups, and the digital trends shaping our future. Read me on x.com