There are eight previously known species of pangolin — four found in Asia and four in Africa. Genomics can help protect threatened speciesThe scales’ form initially suggested they belonged to one of four species of pangolin found in Asia. But DNA analysis showed that their “genomic data provide robust and compelling evidence that it is a new pangolin species distinct from those previously recognized,” Hu said. An analysis of contraband pangolin scales revealed genetic markers not seen in known species, researchers said. “We also expect to find other pangolin species,” Hu said.

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Persons: CNN —, —, ”, Jing, Yan Hu, pangolin, ” Hu, Aryn Wilder, Wilder, Manis mysteria, Feng Yang One, ” Wilder, “, Hu Organizations: CNN, State Key Laboratory for Conservation, Yunnan University, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Locations: Asia, Africa, Hong Kong, Yunnan