The Genetic Diversity and Population Genetic Structure of the Red Panda, Ailurus fulgens, in Zoos in China

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Red pandas (Ailurus fulgens) have been listed as one of the endangered species in China and worldwide. In order to protect the populations as well as to avoid the inbreeding depression in wildlife, monitoring the genetic diversity and population genetic structure of red pandas is necessary. By analyzing the captive red pandas among the zoos in China using PCR and genotyping, we found a high genetic diversity among the populations as high as that of the wild population. This demonstrate the current scientifically-based breeding program can keep the high genetic diversity in captive red pandas. ABSTRACT: In China, red pandas (Ailurus fulgens) have been raised in zoos for 60 years. It is very important to understand the genetic diversity and population genetic structure of the captive red pandas. Based on 19 microsatellite loci, we investigated genetic diversity and population genetic structure of 116 captive red pandas, with samples taken from 11 captive populations in China. Our results revealed a high genetic diversity among the populations, with mean allelic richness varying from 3.505 (Beijing) to 4.026 (Mianning), and expected heterozygosities varying from 0.631 (Huangshan) to 0.782 (Wenling). In particular, significant deviation from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium was found in populations of Fuzhou and Jiangsu. The genetic differentiation index across all populations was 0.055, indicating a significant genetic differentiation among the 11 populations. These populations could be divided into three genetic clusters using a microsatellite-based Bayesian clustering analysis, which were consistent with the clustering results of wild populations. We conclude that the genetic diversity among captive red pandas is as high as that of the wild population. More attention should be paid to develop a proper and scientifically-based management program to avoid inbreeding and maintain a high genetic diversity in captive red pandas.