The Genetic Diversity and Population Genetic Structure of the Red Panda, Ailurus fulgens, in Zoos in China.

Yun-Fang Xiu,Su-Hui Xu,Chen-Si Lin,Chin-Cheng Chou,Cheng-Chi Liu

doi:10.3390/ani10061008

Yun-Fang Xiu, Su-Hui Xu + Show 3 more

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https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10061008

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Abstract

Simple SummaryRed pandas (Ailurus fulgens) have been listed as one of the endangered species in China and worldwide. In order to protect the populations as well as to avoid the inbreeding depression in wildlife, monitoring the genetic diversity and population genetic structure of red pandas is necessary. By analyzing the captive red pandas among the zoos in China using PCR and genotyping, we found a high genetic diversity among the populations as high as that of the wild population. This demonstrate the current scientifically-based breeding program can keep the high genetic diversity in captive red pandas.In China, red pandas (Ailurus fulgens) have been raised in zoos for 60 years. It is very important to understand the genetic diversity and population genetic structure of the captive red pandas. Based on 19 microsatellite loci, we investigated genetic diversity and population genetic structure of 116 captive red pandas, with samples taken from 11 captive populations in China. Our results revealed a high genetic diversity among the populations, with mean allelic richness varying from 3.505 (Beijing) to 4.026 (Mianning), and expected heterozygosities varying from 0.631 (Huangshan) to 0.782 (Wenling). In particular, significant deviation from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium was found in populations of Fuzhou and Jiangsu. The genetic differentiation index across all populations was 0.055, indicating a significant genetic differentiation among the 11 populations. These populations could be divided into three genetic clusters using a microsatellite-based Bayesian clustering analysis, which were consistent with the clustering results of wild populations. We conclude that the genetic diversity among captive red pandas is as high as that of the wild population. More attention should be paid to develop a proper and scientifically-based management program to avoid inbreeding and maintain a high genetic diversity in captive red pandas.

Highlights

The important issues for conservation and management include both the identification of local populations and the origin of wild individuals
Understanding the distribution of genetic variation within a species and how it is affected by human activities is essential for the development of effective conservation and management programs
Effective genetic management depends on comprehensively understanding the genetic diversity

Summary

Introduction

The important issues for conservation and management include both the identification of local populations and the origin of wild individuals. This can be done using morphological characteristics or tagging programs. Genetic information can provide a niche over traditional methods. Understanding the distribution of genetic variation within a species and how it is affected by human activities is essential for the development of effective conservation and management programs. The red panda (Ailurus fulgens), a member of the order Carnivora, is an arboreal vegetarian mammal that depends almost mainly on a bamboo diet. The major threats to wild red pandas include habitat

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