• anon_water
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    14
    ·
    1 year ago

    So few of these birds remained that their genetic diversity is a problem for reproducing the species 😕.

    “inbreeding depression is a significant problem.[29] The recovery efforts are hampered especially by low fertility of the remaining birds. Genetic analyses have been employed to select captive breeding stock in an effort to preserve the maximum genetic diversity.”

    https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Takahē

    • GONADS125@lemmy.world
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      9
      ·
      1 year ago

      This is a problem with cheetahs as well, where it’s theorized that only a small group survived the last ice age, and survived thru inbreeding. Because of this, they are essentially genetic “clones” of one another with almost zero genetic variability, and they have about a 50% chance to successfully receive transplants without the need for the medication typically required to prevent rejection. Source

      • anon_water
        link
        fedilink
        English
        arrow-up
        2
        ·
        1 year ago

        Do cheetahs seem pretty healthy overall as a species even with low diversity?

        • GONADS125@lemmy.world
          link
          fedilink
          English
          arrow-up
          2
          ·
          1 year ago

          They are prone to health problems, particularly those bred in captivity. Cheetahs born in captivity are prone to a disease similar to mad cow disease, which is believed to be transmissible and kills around 70% of the Cheetahs in captivity. It’s sad, but also pretty interesting. Source