Dire Wolves Were Real! But Not Wolves

Direwolves, often seen in fantasy, were real predators during the Ice Age. Recent studies reveal they are not closely related to gray wolves, diverging around 5.7 million years ago. Despite physical similarities due to convergent evolution, genetic analysis shows direwolves are distinct, possibly belonging to the genus Eno scion. Their extinction may be linked to genetic isolation, unlike gray wolves who interbred with other canines. This genetic exchange may have helped gray wolves adapt and survive, highlighting the importance of genetic diversity in species survival.

What is one key difference between direwolves and Gray wolves?

• Direwolves were smaller in size.

• Direwolves had weaker jaws.

• Direwolves were herbivores.

• Direwolves had a beefier build.

What did the 2021 study reveal about the relationship between direwolves and Gray wolves?

• They evolved from bears.

• They are the same species.

• They are not closely related.

• They are closely related.

What does the term 'convergent evolution' refer to?

• Species evolving different features due to different pressures.

• Species evolving similar features due to similar pressures.

• Species evolving to become larger over time.

• Species evolving to become more isolated.

Why might a wolf-like body be advantageous for predators?

• It is energy efficient for hunting over long distances.

• It helps them swim faster.

• It allows them to fly.

• It makes them more colorful.

What is one reason suggested for the extinction of direwolves?

• They were too adaptable.

• They were genetically isolated.

• They interbred too much with other species.

• They were herbivores.

How did genetic isolation affect direwolves?

• It made them immune to diseases.

• It limited their adaptability.

• It increased their gene pool.

• It made them more adaptable.

Why is the name 'direwolf' likely to remain popular?

• It is too cool to get rid of.

• It is scientifically accurate.

• It is a new name.

• It is the only name they have.