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In a new study from China, researchers have made several important discoveries linking habitat fragmentation and breeding in giant pandas and, ultimately, their conservation.
Giant pandas are one of the most beloved species in the world. This black and white mammal that lives in the forests of the temperate zone of China belongs to the bear family. They mostly eat bamboo and eat 26 to 84 pounds a day. The giant panda is also the face of many conservation organizations due to its long standing on the endangered species list.
Although they have been delisted from the endangered species list, pandas are still a high-risk group in the animal kingdom. This is partly due to their lengthy mating ritual, which does not often lead to the pregnancy of the female. However, this risk is also associated with a reduction in their habitat and food sources.
Habitat fragmentation, functional relationships and genetic diversity
Habitat fragmentation, or converting a large habitat into smaller areas, has long been discussed in the conservation world. This is important because as habitats become more fragmented, conservationists need to consider the impact on inbreeding and functional relationships.
Functional connectivity is the ability of animals to move between areas of fragmented habitat. This is important to prevent inbreeding in endangered mammals, as well as to ensure that mammals have the resources they need to survive and thrive as a species.
By connecting resources, functional communication allows species to move around and increase their genetic diversity. Genetic diversity is essential for the evolution and survival of species because it creates a more diversified species that supports multiple genetic forces.
Pandas need genetic diversity and functional connectivity to cope with the effects of habitat fragmentation. If isolated, they cannot reproduce or eat.
Pandas and habitat fragmentation
This study provides hope for the pandas, despite the fragmentation that is currently taking place in their environment. Researchers at Wolong Wildlife Sanctuary have found a middle ground for pandas’ reproductive success.
During the course of the study, the researchers found that functional relationships and genetic diversity increase as the proportion of habitat in their habitat increases. This continues until the habitat reaches 80% of the environment. At this stage, functional connectivity and genetic diversity decreases.
They collected this data using a series of faecal samples, a controlled environment, and previous quantitative studies in panda habitats. Comparing this data from Wolong Game Reserve with research done at Michigan State University, the researchers concluded that pandas can actually thrive in imperfect environments.
Good news for saving pandas
By concluding that pandas can thrive in imperfect environments, researchers can redirect conservation efforts by ensuring that imperfect habitats are not ignored when considering what environments should be maintained for panda populations.
These results will also stimulate conservation areas to increase functional connectivity between habitat sites, working to create ecological bridges. This will allow pandas to move between habitats, further diversifying their genetic makeup and ensuring they don’t run out of resources.
Beyond the pandas, the results of this study could help other efforts to conserve equally vulnerable mammals. The understanding that these animals do not need an ideal environment will ultimately lead to a more productive allocation of conservation resources.
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