Saber-toothed cats suffered inbreeding and mobility loss before extinction

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New research suggests that saber-toothed cats experienced significant inbreeding in the period leading up to their extinction. The genetic decline appears to have coincided with physical deterioration, including difficulties with movement. Scientists believe these compounding factors likely accelerated the species' eventual disappearance. The findings shed new light on the biological vulnerabilities that contributed to the demise of one of prehistory's most iconic predators.

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