A groundbreaking study delves into the critical relationship between the environment and the lives of Red Pandas in the eastern Himalayas.
It meticulously examines how geographical features such as rivers and mountain passes act as barriers, affecting the ability of Red Pandas to interact for mating and genetic diversity.
The study “Barriers and corridors: Assessment of gene flow and movement among red panda populations in eastern Himalayas“ was conducted by a team of researchers led by Dr. Mukesh Thakur from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI).
Photo: ঈশান জ্যোতি বৰা, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Through comprehensive genetic testing, the team maps the gene flow among Red Panda populations, revealing concerning trends. While the region boasts 12,000 square kilometers of prime Red Panda habitat, only a fraction (443 square kilometers) is legally protected.
Linking isolated habitats
Moreover, landscape analysis identifies potential corridors linking isolated Red Panda habitats, which are crucial for genetic diversity.
“Based on our findings, we see a significant opportunity to improve the conservation and management of the Red Panda in India,” says Dr. Mukesh Thakur from ZSI.
The study underscores the need for broader conservation efforts, advocating for Community Conservation Reserves managed by locals and cross-border cooperation with China, Nepal, and Bhutan.
This holistic approach aims to ensure a sustainable future for Red Pandas across their habitat.
Read more
Supriyo Dalui, Lalit Kumar Sharma, Mukesh Thakur,
Barriers and corridors: Assessment of gene flow and movement among red panda populations in eastern Himalayas, Science of The Total Environment, Volume 931, 2024, 172523, ISSN 0048-9697, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172523