Dr. Anna Genelt-Yanovskaya and Dr. Evgeny Genelt-Yanovskiy have embarked on a remarkable journey into the past by studying ancient whale and seal from historic collections.

Some dating back nearly two centuries, offer a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of Antarctica. The researchers employ specialized techniques.

Including the use of small drills and handheld tools, to carefully extract samples from these specimens. Through these efforts, they aim to learn more about the lives of these animals and the environmental conditions in which they lived, long before the modern era.

Careful Incisions

The preservation of these irreplaceable specimens is paramount to the success of the research. Every cut and sample is meticulously planned to avoid any damage them

Dr. Anna explains, “Each piece here holds historical significance; therefore, minimizing our samples is crucial.” One particularly fascinating specimen is a leopard seal, which originates from Sir James Clark Ross’s Antarctic expedition, nearly 200 years ago.

This specimen provides an invaluable connection to the past, offering clues about the seal’s role in the ecosystem of that time.

Optimized Sampling

Rather than extracting multiple samples from each specimen, the researchers focus on sampling specific regions of it. This strategy, as Anna points out, ensures that the team can carry out a variety of analyses without depleting the sample or compromising its future potential for further study.

By concentrating on the most important areas of them, the team can extract maximum data while still leaving enough material for others to work with in the future.

Unexpected Challenges

One of the most unexpected hurdles the researchers faced was the difficulty of extracting collagen from these ancient ones. As Dr. Evgeny Genelt-Yanovskiy recalls, “samples usually yield collagen within days when placed in acid.

However, older specimens can take up to a month or more.” The process of collagen extraction is a delicate and time-consuming one, and it requires patience and careful handling to avoid damaging the precious specimens.

Prolonged Wait

The researchers had to stay in close contact with their colleagues at the University of York due to the extended extraction times. Updates were often slow, but the team's perseverance ultimately paid off.

After weeks of waiting, the extraction was successful, revealing the secrets hidden deep within them. The slow but steady progress is a testament to the researchers’ commitment and the enduring value of these ancient specimens.