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Wang Q, Yang B, Zhu R, Wang X, Li S, Zhang L. Unveiling the Biodiversity and Conservation Significance of Medog: A Camera-Trapping Survey on Mammals in the Southeastern Tibetan Mountains. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2188. [PMID: 39123714 PMCID: PMC11311013 DOI: 10.3390/ani14152188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The Medog in southeastern Tibet is home to a diverse range of wild animals. However, research on these mammals' species directories, distribution, and conservation status remains insufficient, despite their crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. The study carried out a camera-trapping survey to assess mammal biodiversity and the significance of mammal protection in their natural habitats in Gedang, Medog. Future directions and application prospects of the study for wildlife conservation in the southeastern Tibetan mountains were also discussed. The survey, spanning from April 2023 to May 2024, with 19,754 camera trap days, revealed 25 mammalian species across five orders and 14 families. Among these, four classified as Endangered, five as Vulnerable, two as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, nine were categorized as Critically Endangered or Endangered on the Red List of China's Vertebrates, and seven were China's national first-class key protected wildlife. The order Carnivora exhibited the highest diversity, comprising 12 species. Furthermore, the study filled the knowledge gap regarding the underrepresentation of Gongshan muntjac Muntiacus gongshanensis in IUCN and provided new insights into the recorded coexistence of the Himalayan red panda Ailurus fulgens and Chinese red panda Ailurus styani along the Yarlung Zangbo River for the first time, and also documented new upper elevation limits for four large to medium-sized species. Regarding the relative abundance indices (RAI) captured by camera traps, the most prevalent species identified was the White-cheeked macaque Macaca leucogenys, followed by the Gongshan muntjac and Himalayan serow Capricornis thar. The monitoring also captured a number of domestic dogs and livestock, as well as human disturbances. These findings underscore the importance of conserving these mammals and emphasize the need for conservation efforts to protect their habitats and reduce human activities that threaten their survival, thereby maintaining the ecological balance of the region. Additionally, the research highlighted Gedang's significance to global conservation efforts for mammalian diversity, providing essential data for effective wildlife conservation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; (Q.W.); (L.Z.)
| | - Biao Yang
- College of Life Sciences, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637001, China
- Society of Entrepreneurs and Ecology (SEE) Foundation, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Ruifeng Zhu
- Sichuan Zoological Society, Chengdu 610065, China; (R.Z.); (X.W.); (S.L.)
| | - Xin Wang
- Sichuan Zoological Society, Chengdu 610065, China; (R.Z.); (X.W.); (S.L.)
| | - Shilin Li
- Sichuan Zoological Society, Chengdu 610065, China; (R.Z.); (X.W.); (S.L.)
| | - Li Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; (Q.W.); (L.Z.)
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Dalui S, Sharma LK, Thakur M. Barriers and corridors: Assessment of gene flow and movement among red panda populations in eastern Himalayas. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 931:172523. [PMID: 38657804 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Landscape features can impede dispersal, gene flow, and population demography, resulting in the formation of several meta-populations within a continuous landscape. Understanding a species' ability to overcome these barriers is critical for predicting genetic connectivity and population persistence, and implementing effective conservation strategies. In the present study, we conducted a fine-scale spatial genetic analysis to understand the contemporary gene flow within red panda populations in the Eastern Himalayas. Employing geometric aspects of reserve design, we delineated the critical core habitats for red pandas, which comprise 14.5 % of the landscape (12,189.75 Km2), with only a mere 443 Km2 falling within the protected areas. We identified corridors among the core habitats, which may be vital for the species' long-term genetic viability. Furthermore, we identified substantial landscape barriers, including Sela Pass in the western region, Siang river in the central region, and the Dibang river, Lohit river, along with Dihang, Dipher, and Kumjawng passes in the eastern region, which hinder gene flow. We suggest managing red panda populations through the creation of Community Conservation Reserves in the identified core habitats, following landscape-level management planning based on the core principles of geometric reserve design. This includes a specific emphasis on identified core habitats of red panda (CH-RP 5 and CH-RP 8) to facilitate corridors and implement meta-population dynamics. We propose the development of a comprehensive, long-term conservation and management plan for red pandas in the transboundary landscape, covering China, Nepal, and Bhutan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriyo Dalui
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053, India; Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, West Bengal 700019, India
| | - Lalit Kumar Sharma
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053, India
| | - Mukesh Thakur
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053, India.
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3
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Hu Y, Hu Y, Zhou W, Wei F. Conservation Genomics and Metagenomics of Giant and Red Pandas in the Wild. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2024; 12:69-89. [PMID: 37863091 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-021022-054730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Giant pandas and red pandas are endangered species with similar specialized bamboo diet and partial sympatric distribution in China. Over the last two decades, the rapid development of genomics and metagenomics research on these species has enriched our knowledge of their biology, ecology, physiology, genetics, and evolution, which is crucial and useful for their conservation. We describe the evolutionary history, endangerment processes, genetic diversity, and population structure of wild giant pandas and two species of red pandas (Chinese and Himalayan red pandas). In addition, we explore how genomics and metagenomics studies have provided insight into the convergent adaptation of pandas to the specialized bamboo diet. Finally, we discuss how these findings are applied to effective conservation management of giant and red pandas in the wild and in captivity to promote the long-term persistence of these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yisi Hu
- College of Forestry, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China;
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yibo Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenliang Zhou
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, China
| | - Fuwen Wei
- College of Forestry, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China;
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Wangmo LK, Jabin G, Ghosh A, Priyambada P, Dalui S, Joshi BD, Singh VK, Dolker S, Mohapatra RK, Nair MV, Sharma LK, Thakur M. Genetic assessment of captive breeding program of Indian Pangolin: implications for conservation and management. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:136. [PMID: 38236328 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09090-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Captive breeding programs play a vital role in conservation of threatened species, necessitating an understanding of genetic diversity among captive individuals to ensure long-term genetic viability, appropriate mate selection, and successful reintroduction to native habitats. METHODS AND RESULTS We did not observe any recent genetic bottleneck, and population showed moderate genetic diversity. The estimated effective population size, representing individuals capable of contributing genetically to future generations, was estimated as 18.6 individuals (11.4-35.1 at 95% CI). Based on the genetic make-up and allelic diversity, we found seventeen pangolins (11 females and 6 males) were genetically unrelated and relatively more potent than others. CONCLUSION In this study, we evaluated the captive breeding program of the Indian pangolin population at the Pangolin Conservation Breeding Centre in Nandankanan Zoological Park, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. We highlight the significance of genetic monitoring within the captive population of Indian pangolin for preserving genetic diversity and ensuring the long-term survival of the species. We established the genetic profiles of all 29 pangolins and identified 17 pangolins to be prioritized for enhanced breeding and future zoo exchange programs. We appreciate the zoo authorities for promoting genetic assessment of pangolin for better and more effective monitoring of the captive breeding of the endangered Indian pangolin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenrik Konchok Wangmo
- Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700053, India
- University of Calcutta, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700019, India
| | - Gul Jabin
- Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700053, India
- University of Calcutta, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700019, India
| | - Avijit Ghosh
- Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700053, India
- University of Calcutta, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700019, India
| | - Prajnashree Priyambada
- Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700053, India
- University of Calcutta, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700019, India
| | - Supriyo Dalui
- Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700053, India
- University of Calcutta, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700019, India
| | - Bheem Dutt Joshi
- Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700053, India
| | - Vinaya Kumar Singh
- Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700053, India
| | - Stanzin Dolker
- Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700053, India
- University of Calcutta, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700019, India
| | | | - Manoj V Nair
- Nandankanan Zoological Park, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 754005, India
| | - Lalit Kumar Sharma
- Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700053, India
| | - Mukesh Thakur
- Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700053, India.
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Dolker S, Jabin G, Singh SK, Joshi BD, Singh VK, Dalui S, Chandra K, Sharma LK, Thakur M. Landscape genetics identified conservation priority areas for blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur) in the Indian Trans-Himalayan Region. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18152. [PMID: 37875501 PMCID: PMC10598060 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44823-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The trans-Himalayan region of India, although have xeric features, still supports a unique assemblage of biodiversity, including some of the charismatic and endemic species. In the present study, we studied blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur) across the distribution range in the Western trans Himalayas of India and found about 18,775 km2 area suitable for blue sheep. The explicit Bayesian based spatial and non-spatial population structure analysis assigned blue sheep into two genetic populations, i.e., Ladakh and Lahaul-Spiti. We found relatively high genetic divergence in blue sheep which is also supported by the low current flow in Circuitscape model. With the multiple evidences, we explain landscape resistance facilitated by the landscape heterogeneity, and large patches of unsuitable habitats forced population divergence and poor functional connectivity. We found that blue sheep population has been demographically stable in the past, but showed a slight decline within the last few decades. This study is the first range-wide attempt to exhibit landscape features in shaping the spatial distribution, genetic structure and demography patterns of blue sheep in Western Himalayas, and will be of use in the conservation and management planning of blue sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanzin Dolker
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, 700053, West Bengal, India
- Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Gul Jabin
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, 700053, West Bengal, India
- Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Sujeet Kumar Singh
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, 700053, West Bengal, India
- Amity Institute of Forestry and Wildlife, Amity University Campus, Sector-125, Noida, 201303, UP, India
| | - Bheem Dutt Joshi
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, 700053, West Bengal, India
| | - Vinaya Kumar Singh
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, 700053, West Bengal, India
| | - Supriyo Dalui
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, 700053, West Bengal, India
- Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Kailash Chandra
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, 700053, West Bengal, India
| | - Lalit Kumar Sharma
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, 700053, West Bengal, India
| | - Mukesh Thakur
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, 700053, West Bengal, India.
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Jabin G, Dolker S, Joshi BD, Singh SK, Chandra K, Sharma LK, Thakur M. Lahaul–Zanskar–Sham Valley Corridor in Indian Trans Himalayan Region Facilitates Dispersal and Gene Flow in Himalayan Ibex. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12030382. [PMID: 36979074 PMCID: PMC10045165 DOI: 10.3390/biology12030382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Wildlife corridors that connect mosaic habitats in heterogeneous mountainous landscapes can be of high significance as they facilitate the genetic and demographic stability of free-ranging populations. Peripheral populations of widespread species are usually ignored in conservation planning. However, these populations retain locally common alleles and are genetic reservoir under the changing climatic conditions. Capra sibirica has widespread distribution, and its southern peripheral population is distributed in the Indian trans-Himalayan region (ITR). In the present study, we studied the spatial distribution and genetic make-up of Himalayan ibex from the ITR following the landscape genetics approach. We obtained 16 haplotypes at the mitochondrial d-loop region and found a stable demography in the past with a recent decline. With 10 nuclear microsatellites, we ascertained 111 unique individuals assigned into two clusters following Bayesian and non-Bayesian clustering analysis with several admixed individuals. We also recorded 25 first-generation migrants that reflected relatively high dispersal and gene-flow across the range. We identified a 19,835 sq.km suitable area with 13,311 sq.km in Ladakh and 6524 sq.km in Lahaul-Spiti. We identified a novel movement corridor for Himalayan ibex across the Lahaul–Zanskar–Sham valley (L–Z–SV) that displayed a fairly good conductance with low genetic divergence among the samples collected on the L–Z–SV corridor. We propose declaring a protected area in the Lahaul and Kargil districts to prioritize dedicated conservation efforts for the Himalayan ibex and other sympatric ungulates that impart a major role in the diet of large carnivore and balancing ecosystem services in the trans-Himalayan region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gul Jabin
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata 700053, West Bengal, India
- Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Stanzin Dolker
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata 700053, West Bengal, India
- Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Bheem Dutt Joshi
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata 700053, West Bengal, India
| | - Sujeet Kumar Singh
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata 700053, West Bengal, India
| | - Kailash Chandra
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata 700053, West Bengal, India
| | - Lalit Kumar Sharma
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata 700053, West Bengal, India
| | - Mukesh Thakur
- Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata 700053, West Bengal, India
- Correspondence:
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7
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Singh VK, Joshi BD, Dalui S, Ghosh A, Jabin G, Sharief A, Kumar V, Singh H, Singh SK, Chandra K, Sharma LK, Thakur M. Genetic diversity and population structure of Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus) from Western Himalaya. MAMMALIA 2023. [DOI: 10.1515/mammalia-2022-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Himalayan tahr is a group-living animal of high-altitude Himalaya, distributed all across the subalpine range that also formed an important prey base for large carnivores in Himalaya. The species is threatened due to habitat fragmentation, illegal poaching, and anthropogenic activities. We undertook population genetic assessment of Himalayan tahr from Western Himalaya and observed comparable genetic diversity at both mitochondrial and nuclear microsatellite loci. Bayesian skyline plots showed stable demography in the past several thousand years. We identified 27 unique individuals with a select panel of seven loci and the Bayesian structure analysis inferred two genetic clusters. The present study is the first report on the population genetic make-up of Himalayan tahr and can be used for long-term genetic monitoring of the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinaya Kumar Singh
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
| | - Bheem Dutt Joshi
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
| | - Supriyo Dalui
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
| | - Avijit Ghosh
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
| | - Gul Jabin
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
| | - Amira Sharief
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
| | - Vineet Kumar
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
| | - Hemant Singh
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
| | - Sujeet Kumar Singh
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
- Amity Institute of Forestry and Wildlife, Amity University , Sector-125 , Noida 201303 , India
| | - Kailash Chandra
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
| | - Lalit Kumar Sharma
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
| | - Mukesh Thakur
- Zoological Survey of India , New Alipore , Kolkata 700053 , West Bengal , India
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Dueck LA, Steffens EA. Historical genetic diversity and population structure of wild red pandas (Ailurus fulgens) in Nepal. Mamm Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-022-00272-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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9
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Alex CE, Kubiski SV, Jackson KA, Wack RF, Pesavento PA. AMDOPARVOVIRUS INFECTIONS ARE PREVALENT, PERSISTENT, AND GENETICALLY DIVERSE IN ZOO-HOUSED RED PANDAS ( AILURUS FULGENS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2022; 53:83-91. [PMID: 35339152 PMCID: PMC9219412 DOI: 10.1638/2021-0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Red pandas (Ailurus fulgens) are a globally endangered small carnivoran species and subjects of a robust ex situ conservation effort that includes animals housed in zoos. In 2018, red panda amdoparvovirus (RPAV) was discovered by metagenomics analyses of tissues from two geriatric red pandas, and in one case it was associated with significant lesions. Because RPAV was discovered in a single zoo cohort, it was unclear whether these infections represented a widely distributed, enzootic virus of red pandas or a localized 'spillover' from a different host species into this collection. The first goal of this study was to estimate the prevalence of RPAV in US zoos. The authors amplified RPAV from feces of 104 individual red pandas from 37 US zoos, and the virus was detected in 52/104 samples (50.0%). Next, to establish persistence of infection in individual animals, the authors tested serial samples in a single cohort over a 4.5-yr period, and virus was consistently shed by infected animals throughout the sampling period. Finally, full viral coding sequences were amplified and sequenced from three cases, and partial sequences of both the nonstructural and capsid genes were obtained for an additional 19 cases. RPAV is a genetically diverse but monophyletic viral species, and multiple viral lineages are present in US zoo-housed red pandas. The authors do not know how red pandas were originally infected, but RPAV is very common in red pandas in the United States, and infections are persistent-presumably for the lifetime of the animal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles E Alex
- University of California, Davis (UC Davis) School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Steven V Kubiski
- University of California, Davis (UC Davis) School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, San Diego, CA 92112, USA
| | - Kenneth A Jackson
- University of California, Davis (UC Davis) School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Raymund F Wack
- Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA 95616, USA, and Sacramento Zoo, Sacramento, CA 95822
| | - Patricia A Pesavento
- University of California, Davis (UC Davis) School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Davis, CA 95616, USA,
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Bista D, Baxter GS, Hudson NJ, Murray PJ. Seasonal resource selection of an arboreal habitat specialist in a human-dominated landscape: a case study using red panda. Curr Zool 2022; 69:1-11. [PMID: 36974152 PMCID: PMC10039176 DOI: 10.1093/cz/zoac014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Human dominated landscapes provide heterogeneous wildlife habitat. Conservation of habitat specialists, like red pandas Ailurus fulgens, inhabiting such landscapes is challenging. Therefore information on resource use across spatial and temporal scales could enable informed-decision making with better conservation outcomes. We aimed to examine the effect of geo-physical, vegetation, and disturbance variables on fine-scale habitat selection of red pandas in one such landscape. We equipped 10 red pandas with GPS collars in eastern Nepal in 2019 and monitored them for one year. Our analysis was based on a generalized-linear-mixed model. We found the combined effect of geo-physical, vegetation and disturbance variables resulted in differences in resource selection of red pandas and that the degree of response to these variables varied across seasons. Human disturbances, especially road and cattle herding activities, affected habitat utilization throughout the year whereas other variables were important only during restricted periods. For instance, geo-physical variables were influential in the premating and cub-rearing seasons while vegetation variables were important in all seasons other than premating. Red pandas selected steeper slopes with high solar insolation in the premating season while they occupied elevated areas and preferred specific aspects in the cub-rearing season. Furthermore, the utilized areas had tall bamboo in the birthing and cub-rearing seasons while they also preferred diverse tree species and high shrub cover in the latter. Our study demonstrates the significance of season-specific management, suggests the importance of specific types of vegetation during biologically crucial periods, and emphasizes the necessity to minimize disturbances throughout the year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damber Bista
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton QLD 4343, Australia
| | - Greg S Baxter
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, West St, Darling Heights QLD 4350, Australia
| | - Nicholas J Hudson
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton QLD 4343, Australia
| | - Peter J Murray
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, West St, Darling Heights QLD 4350, Australia
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Singh VK, Singh SK, Joshi BD, Chandra K, Sharma LK, Thakur M. Population genetics of the snow leopards (Panthera uncia) from the Western Himalayas, India. Mamm Biol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-021-00196-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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12
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Bista D, Baxter GS, Hudson NJ, Lama ST, Murray PJ. Effect of disturbances and habitat fragmentation on an arboreal habitat specialist mammal using GPS telemetry: a case of the red panda. LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY 2021; 37:795-809. [PMID: 34720409 PMCID: PMC8542365 DOI: 10.1007/s10980-021-01357-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Habitat specialists residing in human-modified landscapes are likely to be more vulnerable to disturbance because of a functional reliance on very particular habitat features. However, there have been few studies designed to specifically address that issue. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore how the red panda, an iconic endangered habitat specialist, behaves when faced with disturbances and habitat fragmentation. In particular, we attempted to examine the effect of anthropogenic disturbances and fragmentation on home-range size, activity patterns, and recursion. METHODS Using GPS telemetry we monitored 10 red pandas and documented disturbances using camera trapping for one year in eastern Nepal. We performed spatial analysis, analysed activity patterns and evaluated the effect of habitat fragmentation and disturbances on home-range size and residence time using Linear Mixed Models. RESULTS Home-range size increased in areas with low availability of forest cover whilst home ranges were smaller in areas with a high road density. Red pandas spent more time in large habitat patches away from roads and cattle stations. Crossing rates suggested that roads acted as a barrier for movement across their habitat. Red pandas also partitioned their activity to minimize interactions with disturbances. CONCLUSIONS Red pandas seem to make a trade-off to co-exist in human-dominated landscapes which may have adverse long-term effects on their survival. This indicates that current patterns of habitat fragmentation and forest exploitation may be adversely affecting red panda conservation efforts and that landscape-scale effects should be considered when planning conservation actions. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10980-021-01357-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damber Bista
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343 Australia
| | - Greg S. Baxter
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343 Australia
| | - Nicholas J. Hudson
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343 Australia
| | | | - Peter John Murray
- School of Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, West St., Darling Heights, Toowoomba, QLD 4350 Australia
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Karki S, Maraseni T, Mackey B, Bista D, Lama ST, Gautam AP, Sherpa AP, Koju U, Shrestha A, Cadman T. Reaching over the gap: A review of trends in and status of red panda research over 193 years (1827-2020). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 781:146659. [PMID: 33794452 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.146659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The red panda is a unique species taxonomically known for its peculiar biological and ecological characteristics, and extreme attractiveness. Despite being highly significant from conservation, scientific and economic perspectives, this species has experienced a declining population in the wild. Thus, to direct further research priorities and conservation actions and assess gaps in the current research trend of this species, a systematic literature review was conducted covering 175 journal articles published in English over 193 years (1827-2020). This review revealed that (1) the biological aspect was highly studied compared to other thematic areas of red panda (2) captive-based studies are relatively higher than the studies based in wild populations (3) China is leading the red panda studies amongst all red panda range (4) The universities were found contributing more to red panda studies than other institutions. Surprisingly, we found that the researchers from the non-range country were leading red panda study than those from range countries. Our review highlighted the need of prioritising studies in underrepresented locations and understudied thematic areas focusing on the assessment of climate change impact, bamboo distribution status, ecosystem services of red panda habitat, behavior and movement ecology, population estimation, and metapopulation dynamics. We urge landscape-level studies and long-term population monitoring. Besides, we also suggest the documentation and evaluation of the effectiveness of ongoing red panda-focused conservation programs. We also stress the need for strengthening the capacity of institutions and people from range countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sikha Karki
- Cities Research Institute, Griffith University, Australia.
| | | | - Brendan Mackey
- Griffith Climate Action Beacon, Griffith University, Australia
| | - Damber Bista
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Upama Koju
- Kathmandu Forestry College, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Tim Cadman
- Institute for Ethics, Governance and Law, Griffith University, Australia
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Dong X, Zhang J, Gu X, Wang Y, Bai W, Huang Q. Evaluating habitat suitability and potential dispersal corridors across the distribution landscape of the Chinese red panda (Ailurus styani) in Sichuan, China. Glob Ecol Conserv 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2021.e01705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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15
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Trends in Wildlife Connectivity Science from the Biodiverse and Human-Dominated South Asia. J Indian Inst Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s41745-021-00240-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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16
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Bista D, Lama ST, Weerman J, Sherpa AP, Pandey P, Thapa MK, Acharya H, Hudson NJ, Baxter GS, Murray PJ. Improved Trapping and Handling of an Arboreal, Montane Mammal: Red Panda Ailurus fulgens. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11040921. [PMID: 33805041 PMCID: PMC8064068 DOI: 10.3390/ani11040921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Capture and handling is essential to study some biological and ecological properties of free-ranging animals. However, capturing an arboreal and cryptic species such as the red panda is challenging due to the difficult terrain, their elusive nature, and potential risks to human and animal safety. We developed and successfully tested a protocol for tracking, capture, immobilization, and handling of red pandas. This method could also be used, with some modifications, for other arboreal species. This study extends the known range of body weight and length of free-ranging red pandas. We also report some new morphometric data that could serve as a guide for field identification. Abstract It is sometimes essential to have an animal in the hand to study some of their ecological and biological characteristics. However, capturing a solitary, cryptic, elusive arboreal species such as the red panda in the wild is challenging. We developed and successfully tested a protocol for tracking, trapping, immobilization, and handling of red pandas in the wild in eastern Nepal. We established a red panda sighting rate of 0.89 panda/day with a capture success rate of 0.6. We trapped and collared one animal in 3.7 days. On average, we took nearly 136 (range 50–317) min to capture an animal after spotting it. Further processing was completed in 38.5 (21–70) min. Before capture, we found it difficult to recognize the sex of the red panda and to differentiate sub-adults above six months from adults. However, body weight, body length, tail length, shoulder height, and chest girth can be used for diagnosis, as these attributes are smaller in sub-adults. Our method is a welfare-friendly way of trapping and handling wild red pandas. We report new morphometric data that could serve as a guide for field identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damber Bista
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia; (N.J.H.); (G.S.B.)
- Correspondence: or
| | - Sonam Tashi Lama
- Red Panda Network, Baluwatar, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal; (S.T.L.); (A.P.S.)
| | - Janno Weerman
- Rotterdam Zoo, Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Ang Phuri Sherpa
- Red Panda Network, Baluwatar, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal; (S.T.L.); (A.P.S.)
| | - Purushotam Pandey
- Directorate of Livestock and Fisheries Development, Province no.1, Biratnagar 56613, Nepal;
| | - Madhuri Karki Thapa
- Department of Forest and Soil Conservation, Babarmahal, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal;
| | - Haribhadra Acharya
- Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Babarmahal, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal;
| | - Nicholas J. Hudson
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia; (N.J.H.); (G.S.B.)
| | - Greg S. Baxter
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia; (N.J.H.); (G.S.B.)
| | - Peter John Murray
- School of Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, West St, Darling Heights, QLD 4350, Australia;
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Dalui S, Singh SK, Joshi BD, Ghosh A, Basu S, Khatri H, Sharma LK, Chandra K, Thakur M. Geological and Pleistocene glaciations explain the demography and disjunct distribution of red panda (A. fulgens) in eastern Himalayas. Sci Rep 2021; 11:65. [PMID: 33420314 PMCID: PMC7794540 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80586-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pleistocene glaciations facilitated climatic oscillations that caused for enormous heterogeneity in landscapes, and consequently affected demography and distribution patterns of the mountain endemic species. In this context, we investigated demographic history and population genetic structure of red panda, distributed along the geographical proximity in the southern edge of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Bayesian based phylogeny demonstrated that red panda diverged about 0.30 million years ago (CI 0.23-0.39) into two phylogenetic (sub) species, that correspond to the middle-late Pleistocene transition. The observed intraspecific clades with respect to Himalayan and Chinese red panda indicated restricted gene flow resulting from the Pleistocene glaciations in the eastern and southern Tibetan Plateau. We found Himalayan red panda population at least in KL-India declined abruptly in last 5-10 thousand years after being under demographic equilibrium. We suggest revisiting the ongoing conservation activities through cross border collaboration by developing multi-nationals, and multi-lateral species-oriented conservation action plans to support the red panda populations in transboundary landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriyo Dalui
- grid.473833.80000 0001 2291 2164Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053 India ,grid.59056.3f0000 0001 0664 9773Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, West Bengal 700019 India
| | - Sujeet Kumar Singh
- grid.473833.80000 0001 2291 2164Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053 India
| | - Bheem Dutt Joshi
- grid.473833.80000 0001 2291 2164Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053 India
| | - Avijit Ghosh
- grid.473833.80000 0001 2291 2164Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053 India ,grid.59056.3f0000 0001 0664 9773Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, West Bengal 700019 India
| | - Shambadeb Basu
- grid.473833.80000 0001 2291 2164Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053 India
| | - Hiren Khatri
- grid.473833.80000 0001 2291 2164Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053 India
| | - Lalit Kumar Sharma
- grid.473833.80000 0001 2291 2164Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053 India
| | - Kailash Chandra
- grid.473833.80000 0001 2291 2164Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053 India
| | - Mukesh Thakur
- grid.473833.80000 0001 2291 2164Zoological Survey of India, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700053 India
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