Responsible genetic management of large carnivores: Conserving cheetahs on an evolutionary timescale

Between 1965 and 2015, cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) were reintroduced into 53 small fenced reserves in South Africa. These reintroductions resulted in a current population of 315 cheetahs. These cheetahs are managed as a... [ view full abstract ]

Between 1965 and 2015, cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) were reintroduced into 53 small fenced reserves in South Africa. These reintroductions resulted in a current population of 315 cheetahs. These cheetahs are managed as a metapopulation in five geographically separated management clusters and constitute approximately 25% of South Africa’s wild cheetah population. For this population to maintain its genetic and demographic integrity, dispersals between reserves need to be simulated through translocations. However, several reserves have adopted a lax approach towards inbreeding, and the game viewing opportunities provided by habituated individuals are prioritised over genetic management. Approximately 20% of the animals in the metapopulation are thought to be the product of inbred matings. Here we discuss the long-term impact of inbreeding depression in wild populations and examine the specific implications from both within and outside of a managed metapopulation framework. Genetic research indicates that an effective population size of Ne=1000 is required to retain evolutionary potential for genetic fitness in perpetuity. Only four of the 15 known populations of cheetah in East Africa are estimated to number more than 200 animals, with the largest population estimated at 710 individuals. Current human population and economic growth rates observed on the African continent will continue to fragment these remaining populations. Assisted gene flow (as has been demonstrated in South Africa) is a potential tool to overcome the negative effects of population contraction and fragmentation, allowing even genetically doomed populations to provide conservation benefit for the species. For this to be achieved, the development and implementation of co-ordinated legislation and policies is required to ensure effective cross border management of cheetah in the human dominated landscapes of East Africa. This approach will require considerable inputs of time, money and the development of technical capacity to translocate individuals. Where possible, priority should be given to conservation strategies that promote natural dispersal and population self-regulation. Even if future conservation efforts manage to halt further anthropogenic disturbance from affecting isolated populations, they will succumb to genetic factors well before their evolutionary expiration date. Small, isolated populations of large carnivores require responsible management to ensure their genetic health in perpetuity.