Rats and shrews less genetically diverse than 500 years ago because of humans

Study’s authors say impact of humans on such mammals highlights need to protect biodiversity, reports Furvah Shah

Small mammals like shrews are amogst the most resilient, adaptable species on Earth (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Rats, shrews and other small mammals are less genetically diverse compared to 500 years ago because of humans, according to a new study.

Researchers at Stanford University found that when comparing mammal remains in pre-colonial North America to those of today, they were less diverse and differently structured which shows the extent of the impact of human activity on ecosystems.

“The way that we manage lands matters, and that it is not too late to protect our lands in order to protect biodiversity,” said Dr Maria Viteri from Stanford University’s department of biology.