Russian and Korean scientists study genetic diversity in tigers and leopards

Russian and Korean scientists study genetic diversity in tigers and leopards

4 February 2022

New DNA research will help scientists monitor the genetic state of growing feline populations, Their health and wellbeing depend on genetic diversity.

 

The project is underway in the Primorye Territory and South Korea.

 

In late January, a group of Korean experts arrived at Land of the Leopard National Park and began lab work with the park’s employees to isolate genetic material from over 200 samples of tiger and leopard excrement collected in the wild of southwest Primorye over the last two years.

 

“Genetic diversity ensures population survival. The more diverse the gene pool, the more viable both the individuals and the population as a whole are. Considering that the leopard population has grown from a very limited number of animals, we must know the population’s genetic state so that we can take measures if necessary in case of inbreeding depression, that is, the accumulation of harmful traits,” said Viktor Bardyuk, director of Land of the Leopard.

 

Assessing genetic diversity is critical when monitoring the population of endangered animals. The methods scientists use include determining the species, sex and relations of wild animals.