Recent research has unveiled new insights into the origins of the dingo, Australia’s native wild dog. A study conducted by scientists from the University of Sydney, among other institutions, reveals that dingoes evolved from an early East Asian dog lineage, challenging previous theories about their origins.
The research team examined ancient dingo remains unearthed from archaeological sites at Lake Mungo and Lake Milkengay in western New South Wales. Their findings indicate that dingoes are linked to East Asian dogs and support the idea that they migrated via Melanesia. This discovery contradicts earlier hypotheses suggesting that dingoes originated from pariah dogs in India or Thailand.
Dr. Loukas Koungoulos, the lead author of the study, emphasized the significance of these findings: “The origins of the dingo have been a subject of debate for over a century. Our research identifies the first concrete connections between the dingo fossils and their East Asian ancestors.”
The study involved radiocarbon dating of dingo remains, some of which are over 3,000 years old, offering the earliest evidence of these animals in Australia. The researchers found that dingoes share genetic links with dogs from Southeast Asia and Melanesia, reinforcing the theory of their ancient lineage.
Dr. Melanie Fillios from the University of New England highlighted the implications of the study: “Our research underscores the long history of dingoes, revealing a common ancestor with modern canines in Southeast Asia. This discovery provides a clearer understanding of how dingoes have evolved over millennia.”
Additionally, the study observed that modern dingoes have become larger and leaner compared to their ancient counterparts. Contemporary dingoes average 54 cm in height, whereas their ancestors were between 40-47 cm tall. This change in size aligns more closely with their Southeast Asian and Melanesian relatives.
The findings also challenge earlier views on dingo variability, suggesting that their distinctive traits are not solely a result of recent domestic dog interbreeding but reflect deeper evolutionary changes.
The research offers valuable insights into the evolutionary history of the dingo, shedding light on its development and adaptation as a uniquely Australian species.
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