- #1
neurocomp2003
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saw it on the news today...
Discover the Fascinating 6-Legged Frog in China | Latest News Update
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Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the phenomenon of a six-legged frog recently reported in China, exploring the implications of such mutations, the role of biotechnology in creating modified animals, and the potential environmental impact of these changes. Participants share observations, propose ideas, and question the feasibility of creating animals with additional limbs.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- Some participants note that mutations like the six-legged frog may not be genetic and could result from birth defects, suggesting that such anomalies are not uncommon in nature.
- One participant proposes the idea of using biotechnology to create frogs with more than eight legs, questioning how these modified animals would adapt to their environment.
- Another participant references Richard Dawkins' book, mentioning a disturbing example of a frog with eyes in its mouth, highlighting the concept of macro-mutations.
- There is a suggestion that certain parasites may influence the growth of tadpoles, leading to unusual mutations that make them easier targets for predators.
- Some participants discuss the technical feasibility of creating modified animals, mentioning the manipulation of imaginal discs from flies, while questioning the practical applications of such modifications.
- One participant requests clarification on the genetic processes involved in creating these modifications, seeking specific information about which genes might be turned on or off in a laboratory setting.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
The discussion features multiple competing views regarding the nature of mutations, the role of biotechnology, and the implications of creating modified animals. There is no consensus on the feasibility or desirability of such modifications.
Contextual Notes
Participants express uncertainty about the genetic basis of the mutations discussed and the potential environmental impacts of creating modified species. The conversation includes references to specific biological concepts that may not be universally understood.
Who May Find This Useful
Readers interested in genetics, biotechnology, evolutionary biology, and the ethical implications of animal modification may find this discussion relevant.
- #2
hypatia
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You should head to the nearest Ripleys Believe it or Not museums.
5 to 8 legged calfs
two headed newts
multi-head-legged frogs
siamese turtle
doe with antlers
somewhat disturbing photos of people with:
3 hands, 2 mouths, misplaced ears and things too bazaar to mention here.
Most of these are not genetic, odds are the 6 legged frog may not produce 6 legged off spring. Birth defects happen in all living things.
Odd genetic defects are rare, but some such as dental deformities are common.
5 to 8 legged calfs
two headed newts
multi-head-legged frogs
siamese turtle
doe with antlers
somewhat disturbing photos of people with:
3 hands, 2 mouths, misplaced ears and things too bazaar to mention here.
Most of these are not genetic, odds are the 6 legged frog may not produce 6 legged off spring. Birth defects happen in all living things.
Odd genetic defects are rare, but some such as dental deformities are common.
- #3
Emieno
- 97
- 0
Well, by the way I would like to ask people here this, I think biotechnology has developed so far that sure it can help us create our own animals, for instance frogs, like what if we plan to create frogs with more than 8 legs. They are not 'pure' animals anymore, although I think they can get themselves well fitted with our surroundings soon but how long do you think will they be able to cope with our environment ? Is this just hard to explain or clearly state ?
A species with such mutation as far as I see doesn't cause any harm to the environment and to themselves either. So what do you think ?
A species with such mutation as far as I see doesn't cause any harm to the environment and to themselves either. So what do you think ?
- #4
Phobos
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Richard Dawkin's book "Climbing Mount Improbable" has a neat/disturbing photo of a frog with eyes in its mouth instead of atop its head (example of a macro-mutation). Couldn't find a photo on the 'net to share with y'all.
- #5
pattylou
- 305
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Emieno said:
Yeah, I think that'd be doable. You can, for example, move imaginal discs from flies around and get ectopic development of whatever structure you like.
But why would you? What sort of application are you imagining? A new pet?
- #6
somasimple
Gold Member
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Hi All,
I have just seen those kind of mutation on Discovery Channel.
Some parasites larva of the frog disturb the normal growth of tadpoles to create those monsters which are then more easy to catch/eaten by metamorphed larva.
I have just seen those kind of mutation on Discovery Channel.
Some parasites larva of the frog disturb the normal growth of tadpoles to create those monsters which are then more easy to catch/eaten by metamorphed larva.
- #7
Emieno
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Please be straight on what I am trying to ask for, not on what I am trying to imagine, what is going to be any different if it is an application or not an application.pattylou said:
So, your deas on how that could be accomplished are ?
If possible, tell me how you can do tat in lab, what genes do you think should be turned on or off ?
Thanks a lot if you could offer me some help.
[By the way, I don't think all of the people in biology understand about virtual disks of computer, if you can, please mention information related to biology in a correct way. Metaphor or not, your choice, as what you like!
]- #8
Moonbear
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Science Advisor
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Emieno said:Please be straight on what I am trying to ask for, not on what I am trying to imagine, what is going to be any different if it is an application or not an application.
So, your deas on how that could be accomplished are ?
If possible, tell me how you can do tat in lab, what genes do you think should be turned on or off ?
Thanks a lot if you could offer me some help.
[By the way, I don't think all of the people in biology understand about virtual disks of computer, if you can, please mention information related to biology in a correct way. Metaphor or not, your choice, as what you like!
She was being straight with you. When she is talking about "imaginal disks" she's talking about specific structures in the developing fly with that name, not imaginary computer disks, or whatever it was you thought she said.
