Enhancing the Viability of a Small Giant Panda Population Through Individual Introduction From a Larger Conspecific Group: A Scientific Simulation Study

Overview

Journal Animals (Basel)

Date 2024 Aug 29

PMID 39199878

Authors

Yuzhen Zhang

Jiabin Liu

Jiaojiao Yu

Cheng Li

Xing Zhao

Li Mo

Wei Wu

Yulin Gai

Qiang Xu

Jiubin Ni

Limin Shen

Haijun Gu

Jindong Zhang

Dunwu Qi

Xiaodong Gu

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

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.

Citing Articles

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Li C Animals (Basel). 2024; 14(18).

PMID: 39335234 PMC: 11428746. DOI: 10.3390/ani14182644.

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