🤯 Did You Know (click to read)
Major histocompatibility complex genes play a key role in immune defense.
Immune system genes, particularly those involved in pathogen recognition, benefit from high diversity. In the South China tiger, limited founder numbers reduce variability in these genes. Reduced diversity weakens population-level resistance to emerging pathogens. Captive environments can increase exposure to novel diseases despite veterinary oversight. Small populations lack the genetic buffering seen in large wild groups. Disease therefore represents a persistent extinction risk multiplier.
💥 Impact (click to read)
Epidemiological events can rapidly impact confined populations. Even a moderately virulent pathogen could affect a significant percentage of individuals. Genetic uniformity magnifies this risk. Unlike widespread wild populations, captive groups cannot rely on natural spatial separation to limit spread. Health management becomes a continuous priority.
The South China tiger’s survival strategy must integrate genetic monitoring with biosecurity protocols. Long-term viability depends on preserving immune variability alongside demographic growth. Disease dynamics illustrate how small populations face compound threats. Apex predators, despite their strength, remain biologically vulnerable at low numbers. Genetic diversity becomes their shield.
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