Genetic diversity, viability and conservation value of the global captive population of the Moroccan Royal lions.

ABSTRACT: This study evaluates the diversity of the so-called 'Moroccan Royal lions' using genealogical information. Lions are no longer extant in North Africa, but the previous wild population was an important element of the now-recognised northern subspecies (Panthera leo leo) that ranged across West Africa, North Africa and the Middle East into India. The remaining captive population of 'Moroccan Royal lions' seems to be significantly endangered by the loss of diversity due to the effective population size decrease. The pedigree file of this captive lion population consisted of 454 individuals, while the reference population included 98 animals (47 males and 51 females). The completeness of the pedigree data significantly decreased with an increasing number of generations. The highest percentage

SUBMITTER: Lehocka K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8714086 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature