Genetic Diversity of the Giant Panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) Between Big and Small Populations

Abstract

Fang, S.G., Wan, Q.H. and Fujihara, N. 2002. Genetic diversity of the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) between big and small populations. J. Appl. Anim. Res., 21: 65–74.

Genetic diversity of the giant panda was examined by DNA fingerprinting method in order to determine genetic distances between two groups, big and small populations. Results obtained suggest that small population may induce the reduction of genetic diversity of the giant panda and result in extinction of the species. These results suggest the need for reintroduction of individuals into small population for preventing the reduction of genetic diversity in giant panda population.

Key words:

• Giant Panda
• genetic diversity
• population
• China