AlphaBiolabs USA Blog
DNA tests disprove yeti theory
The yeti has been part of Himalayan folklore for centuries. But now DNA testing has proven that this elusive creature is in fact a bear, or a dog.
Cable television channel Animal Planet requested that biologist Charlotte Lindqvist test yeti evidence (including droppings, hair, teeth and bones) gathered from across the Himalayan mountain range. In all, Lindqvist and colleagues examined the mitochondrial DNA of nine supposed yeti samples and published the results in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B [1].
Seven of the nine claimed yeti samples came from Himalayan or Tibetan brown bears; one came from a black bear; and one came from a dog. Lindqvist, a professor at the University of Buffalo, specializes in species genetics and agreed to the unusual project because of her interest in brown bear sub species. Her team were able to create the first full mitochondrial genomes for the Himalayan black bear and the Himalayan brown bear. The research also proved that the Tibetan brown bear and the Himalayan brown bear are more genetically distinct from one another than previously thought.
The researchers concluded: “This study represents the most rigorous analysis to date of samples suspected to derive from anomalous or mythical ‘hominid’-like creatures, strongly suggesting that the biological basis of the yeti legend is local brown and black bears.”
Order a DNA test
AlphaBiolabs is an award-winning DNA testing lab. Our DNA testing starts at just $119
