Noninvasive genetics and genomics shed light on the status, phylogeography, and evolution of the elusive snow leopard

JE Janecka, C Hacker, J Broderick, S Pulugulla… - … Genetics in Mammals …, 2020 - Springer
JE Janecka, C Hacker, J Broderick, S Pulugulla, P Auron, MK Ringling, B Nelson…
Conservation Genetics in Mammals: Integrative Research Using Novel Approaches, 2020Springer
Noninvasive genetic methods and genomics have been able to provide important insights
into the distribution, ecology, and evolution of the snow leopard. Scat sampling has yielded
quantitative population size estimates using surveys that can be implemented over areas
larger than can be done with more traditional methods. Scat has also been used to better
understand the diet of this species. It has been found that in many regions snow leopards
frequently consume livestock. New molecular markers enable studies to understand the …
Abstract
Noninvasive genetic methods and genomics have been able to provide important insights into the distribution, ecology, and evolution of the snow leopard. Scat sampling has yielded quantitative population size estimates using surveys that can be implemented over areas larger than can be done with more traditional methods. Scat has also been used to better understand the diet of this species. It has been found that in many regions snow leopards frequently consume livestock. New molecular markers enable studies to understand the spatial and temporal variation in depredation and to evaluate conservation actions that seek to reduce it. Scats also represent important population samples that have been used to provide insights into the phylogeography and population structure of the snow leopard. Patterns in genetic variation indicate several barriers leading to three primary clusters, while also identifying broader regions where landscape connectivity maintains metapopulations. Next-generation sequencing of 5 snow leopard whole genomes identified 257,780 SNPs that can be genotyped to acquire finer resolution of structure and understand genomic differences. Genome-wide analysis has enabled a closer examination of the two candidate genes, EGLN1 and EPAS1, which likely play an important role in the high-altitude adaptation of snow leopards by modulating the cellular response to hypoxia. There is additional evidence that one target gene, VEGFA, has higher expression in snow leopard lung compared to tiger, potentially leading to improved ventilation. More in-depth studies are needed to generate rigorous population estimates, understand factors that drive livestock depredation, identify the important corridors for connectivity, and elucidate the high-altitude physiological adaptations of this species. The resulting information will contribute to designing effective conservation and management initiatives that ensure long-term stability of snow leopards throughout their range.
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