Synopsis
A groundbreaking genetic study in Cambodia's northern plains estimates the population of endangered Asian elephants at 51. Conducted by Fauna & Flora in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, this research highlights the region's potential as a sanctuary for these magnificent mammals.Key Takeaways
- The study estimates 51 endangered Asian elephants in Cambodia.
- Conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment.
- Focus on genetic diversity as key for survival.
- Potential for the region to be a national elephant sanctuary.
- Current wild population estimated at 400-600 in Cambodia.
Phnom Penh, March 13 (NationPress) The inaugural genetic analysis of endangered Asian elephants has been carried out in Cambodia's northern plains, estimating the population of these mammals in the region at 51, as stated in a press release from Fauna & Flora Cambodia on Thursday.
This study, executed by Fauna & Flora in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, took place during the 2020-2021 dry season and employed non-invasive genetic sampling methods across three significant protected areas: Prey Lang, Preah Roka, and Chhaeb Wildlife Sanctuaries, according to the press release.
The genetic research was conducted at the Royal University of Phnom Penh with technical assistance from the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, it added.
According to the press release, "The researchers estimated a population of 51 elephants in the region, which is larger than previous local estimates suggested."
Although smaller than Cambodia's main elephant populations found in the Cardamom Mountains and Eastern Plains, which host 200-300 individuals, the Prey Lang Extended Landscape population shows significant genetic diversity, an essential factor for long-term viability, the report noted.
Recognized as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) are among the largest mammals on Earth.
Pablo Sinovas, the country director of the Fauna & Flora Cambodia Programme, stated that researchers utilized both molecular and spatial modeling techniques to evaluate the population size, genetic diversity, and habitat availability for this crucial yet threatened group of Asian elephants in Cambodia.
"Despite its modest size, this population maintains high levels of genetic diversity, which is vital for long-term survival," he remarked.
According to Alex Ball, WildGenes conservation manager for the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, possessing a high degree of genetic diversity within a population is fundamental to its long-term future, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
"We now aspire to expand this methodology throughout Cambodia and beyond, helping to create a clearer understanding of Asian elephant numbers, which will guide us in our efforts to reverse the decline of these magnificent animals," he expressed.
The press release indicated that it is estimated there are currently 400 to 600 Asian elephants in the wild in Cambodia.
The findings from this study highlight the potential of the Prey Lang Extended Landscape to serve as a national sanctuary for Asian elephants, making a significant contribution to Cambodia's biodiversity conservation objectives.
