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5 Ice Age Discoveries Made in Yukon Permafrost

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The Yukon permafrost, one of the best-preserved places on Earth, has provided a unique window into the past, revealing several fascinating Ice Age discoveries. Here are five of those discoveries:

1. **Preserved Mammoths**: The Yukon permafrost has been a hotbed of discoveries for well-preserved mammoths. These massive mammals, which have been extinct for thousands of years, have been found in excellent condition due to rapid freezing and preservation in the permafrost. Their discoveries have provided valuable information about the biology, behavior, and extinction of these creatures.

2. **Plant Fossils**: Permafrost preserves not only animals, but also plants. Fossils of ancient plants, including trees, flowers, and mosses, have been found in the Yukon. These discoveries help scientists reconstruct past ecosystems and understand how climate and vegetation changed over time.

3. **Human Artifacts**: The Yukon permafrost has also revealed artifacts left behind by ancient people who inhabited the region during the Ice Age. Stone tools, weapons, pottery and even human remains have been found frozen in the permafrost, providing important insights into human history and the migration of ancient peoples.

4. **Ancient DNA**: Permafrost preserves not only physical remains, but also genetic material. DNA from extinct animals such as mammoths and giant bison has been extracted from permafrost samples in the Yukon. These genetic studies provide insight into the evolution and genetic diversity of these ancient species.

5. **Ancient Microbiomes**: Permafrost is also home to ancient microbial communities. Microbiological studies of Yukon permafrost have revealed the presence of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that have been frozen for thousands of years. These studies help scientists understand how these microbes adapt to extreme environments and their potential to survive in harsh conditions.