Muscat: The study, published in the esteemed journal Evolutionary Applications, uncovered distinct genetic genes within Arabian leopards housed in breeding centres across the Arabian Peninsula. These genes, previously unknown in wild tiger populations, could be key to addressing the challenges of inbreeding and genetic diversity decline in endangered leopard species.
Dr. Hadi bin Muslim Al-Hakamani, a key researcher involved in the study, explained that genetic rescue techniques could play a vital role in safeguarding endangered species like the Arabian leopard, a subspecies of leopards facing critical threats of extinction. By introducing new genes from breeding centre leopards into the wild population, genetic diversity could be enhanced, thereby improving the health and resilience of these species.
The study analyzed samples from Arabian tigers across Oman, Yemen, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, some dating back to the mid-20th century. This comprehensive genetic evaluation provided insights into the changes in genetic diversity among Arabian leopards over the past five decades.
Currently, the Arabian leopard’s habitat is restricted to fragmented areas in Oman, Yemen, and Saudi Arabia, making it imperative to implement conservation strategies. The Sultanate of Oman has been proactive in protecting the Arabian leopard and its natural habitats, establishing reserves and initiatives aimed at preserving biodiversity and mitigating threats to these endangered species.
The Sultanate of Oman seeks to protect the Arabian leopard from extinction and preserve the sustainability of its natural ecological areas. It aims to achieve environmental balance and biodiversity in various components of the environment, including the project to study the Arabian leopard and protect it from extinction, the establishment of natural reserves that include its range, such as the Jabal Samhan Natural Reserve and the Khor Kharfut Natural Reserve in Jabal al-Qamar, and the implementation of a project to compensate for cases of livestock predation.
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