Enhancing the Viability of a Small Giant Panda Population Through Individual Introduction From a Larger Conspecific Group: A Scientific Simulation Study
Most wild giant panda populations are small and at risk. Translocating individuals from larger groups boosted genetic diversity in two vulnerable populations. Long‑term survival will require targeted introductions. The study offers guidance for strengthening small panda populations and protecting endangered species.
Subject Tags
- Life Sciences
- Habitat restoration
- Biodiversity
Abstract
Currently, nearly 70% of giant panda populations are facing survival challenges. The introduction of wild individuals can bring vitality to them. To explore this possibility, we hypothetically introduced giant pandas from Tangjiahe and Wanglang into Liziping and Daxiangling Nature Reserves. We collected feces from these areas and analyzed the genetic diversity and population viability before and after introduction using nine microsatellite loci. The results showed the genetic level and viability of the large populations were better than the small populations. We investigated the effects of time intervals (2a, 5a, and 10a; year: a) and gender combinations (female: F; male: M) on the rejuvenation of small populations. Finally, five introduction plans (1F/2a, 2F/5a, 1F1M/5a, 3F/10a, and 2F1M/10a) were obtained to make Liziping meet the long-term survival standard after 100 years, and six plans (1F/2a, 2F/5a, 1F1M/5a, 4F/10a, 3F1M/10a, and 2F2M/10a) were obtained in Daxiangling. The more females were introduced, the greater the impact on the large populations. After introducing individuals, the number of alleles and expected heterozygosity of the Liziping population are at least 6.667 and 0.688, and for the Daxiangling population, they are 7.111 and 0.734, respectively. Our study provides theoretical support for the translocation of giant pandas, a reference for the restoration of other endangered species worldwide.
Citation
Zhang, Y., Liu, J., Yu, J., Li, C., Zhao, X., Mo, L., Wu, W., Gai, Y., Xu, Q., Ni, J. and Shen, L., 2024. Enhancing the viability of a small giant panda population through individual introduction from a larger conspecific group: A scientific simulation study. Animals, 14(16), p.2345. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14162345
TNC Authors
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Jiubin Ni
Director, Southwest Center, China
The Nature Conservancy
Email: jiubin.ni@tnc.org