Great auk genome

This study aims to decode the genome of the extinct Great Auk (Pinguinus impennis) using DNA extracted from a female museum specimen. Employing state-of-the-art sequencing and bioinformatics approaches, we investigate genetic factors that may have contributed to the species' extinction. Our methodology includes analyses of genome-wide heterozygosity, runs of homozygosity (ROH), and demographic history reconstruction via the Pairwise Sequentially Markovian Coalescent (PSMC) method. Additionally, we assess the species' genetic load to identify potential deleterious variants. The findings will provide valuable insights into the Great Auk's genetic health, historical population trends, and the role of genetic factors in its extinction, contributing to broader discussions in conservation genetics and extinction biology.