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The Genetics of Tusklessness in Elephants

Topic
  • Genetics
  • Genomics
  • Evolution
  • Population Genetics
  • Science Practices
  • Science & Society
Resource Type
  • Videos
  • Scientists at Work
Level
High School — GeneralHigh School — AP/IBCollege
Duration
00:05:14
View corresponding transcript
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Description

This video follows scientists working in Gorongosa National Park as they try to determine the genes responsible for tusk development in elephants.

Normally, more than 90% of female African elephants have tusks. But in Gorongosa National Park, which has a history of heavy poaching, over 50% of the elephants are tuskless. To study this striking phenomenon, scientists are trying to determine the genes involved in tusk development and how variations in these genes can lead to tusklessness. In this video, biologist Shane Campbell-Staton walks through the steps of collecting DNA samples from elephants in Gorongosa and how he plans to analyze their DNA sequences. 

An audio descriptive version of the film is available via our media player.

Details
Key Terms

Africa, DNA sequence, genome, Gorongosa, microevolution, natural selection, poaching, teeth, tusks

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Accessibility Level

This resource and the accompanying documents comply with accessibility standards in accordance with the final rule for Section 508 of the National Rehabilitation Act.
Version History
Date Published 02.04.21
Curriculum Connections
NGSS (2013)

HS-LS3.B, HS-LS4.B, HS-LS4.C

AP Biology (2019)

EVO-1.E, EVO-1.F, EVO-3.A

IB Biology (2016)

5.2, C.3

AP Environmental Science (2013)

II.C

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (2017)

3.3

Vision and Change (2009)

CC1, CC5

Materials
Transcript (PDF) 246 KB
Film 1080p (M4V) 530 MB
Film 1080p (WMV) 202 MB
Film 720p (M4V) 84 MB
Film 720p (WMV) 257 MB

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