Scientists have successfully extracted DNA from ancient dingo remains dating back between 400 and 2,700 years, revealing that dingoes have a long-established presence across Australia. This new research shows that modern dingoes have very little genetic connection to European domestic dogs brought to Australia but instead are descendants of ancient dogs and wolves from China and the Tibetan plateau. It also confirms that dingoes are closely related to New Guinea singing dogs.
The study, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, suggests that dingoes arrived in Australia between 3,000 and 8,000 years ago, most likely accompanying Pacific traders on boats. The ancient DNA was collected from dingo remains found in museums, Indigenous sites near Sydney, and caves in South Australia and south-west Western Australia.
Dr. Sally Wasef, a lead researcher from Queensland University of Technology, expressed her surprise at the age of some of the specimens, ranging from 700 to 2,700 years old. She emphasized the importance of respecting these ancient remains as they provide valuable insights into the history of dingoes in Australia.
The DNA analysis revealed that dingoes established two distinct regional populations, divided roughly along the Great Dividing Range. This division predates the construction of the rabbit- and dingo-proof fence, indicating a long history of genetic differentiation among dingoes.
The study also found that modern K’gari dingoes have no genetic ancestry from domestic dogs. Ancient dingo remains from Curracurrang and modern dingoes from alpine regions of Victoria and southern New South Wales were found to be genetically close to the New Guinea singing dog.
Further research conducted in Indigenous rock shelters and caves uncovered mummified dingoes that had been well preserved due to the dry conditions. This detailed genetic information helps shed light on the history and evolution of dingoes in Australia.
The findings of the study challenge previous assumptions about dingo ancestry and hybridization with domestic dogs. Conservation efforts for dingoes can now be better informed by understanding their distinct genetic makeup and their long-standing presence in the Australian ecosystem.
Professor Mike Letnic, an expert on dingoes at the University of NSW, praised the study for dispelling misconceptions about dingoes and highlighting their conservation value. By recognizing dingoes as a unique and genetically pure group, conservation efforts can be tailored to protect these iconic Australian predators.
Overall, the research on ancient dingo DNA provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of these animals and underscores the importance of preserving their genetic diversity for future generations to appreciate and study.
