Applied Conservation Genetics Projects
Reintroduction of Arabian Oryx in the UAE
The Arabian oryx was declared extinct in the wild in
1972 and has since been the subject of various reintroduction
programmes.
Staff at the Wildgenes Laboratory are working in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency on a large-scale reintroduction project in the south-west of the United Arab Emirates.
The conservation genetic research aims to ensure that founders include the maximum level of genetic diversity available within the captive stock. The methods developed will also be used to support ongoing population monitoring.
Arabian Oryx photo by MathKnight
Collaborators:
Environment
Agency Abu Dhabi, UAE
Genetic Management of Scimitar-Horned Oryx
The
scimitar-horned oryx (SHO) is subject to extensive population
management within the European (EEP) and North American (SSP)
breeding programmes.
Large numbers of SHO in the UAE are also now being assessed for use in reintroduction programmes.
RZSS is coordinating a number of international conservation
genetic projects for SHOs, in collaboration with the International
Studbook keeper at Marwell Wildlife, in order to provide a solid
scientific basis for future breeding and release programmes.
Collaborators:
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| Marwell Wildlife | Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort (AWPR), UAE |
Reintroduction of Scimitar-Horned Oryx to Chad
As part of a
reintroduction of scimitar-horned oryx to Chad, lead by the
Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, WildGenes laboratory are conducting a
genetic screening programme of the global stock of Scimitar-horned
oryx. The aim of this project is to use genetic information to
select the best combination of animals for reintroduction and to
develop genetic tools for future monitoring of the release and for
the management of the remaining captive stock.
Collaborators:
Areas of Research
Find out more about our specialist research themes:
- Applied Conservation Genetics
- Cognitive Research
- Ecology
- Nutrition
- Veterinary Research
- Population Management
Support the RZSS
The RZSS is a Scottish charity devoted to the conservation of animals and their habitats. With no direct government funding we rely heavily on voluntary support to achieve our charitable aims.
Our Publications
Every year the RZSS research team produce an extensive range of research publications, which gives an indication of the depth of the academic output of the Society.