Genetic changes

Changes in giant panda genes mainly related to its reproductive system may be responsible for its reduced fertility, according to the study.

The fertility of the Sichuan subspecies is higher than that of Qinling subspecies, said Fang, who added that accurate genetic management is important in artificial breeding and in conservation and breeding in the wild to facilitate the giant panda's reproduction.

Fang suggested that gene exchanges between fragmented small populations of pandas within the same subspecies should be sped up, which could help reduce inbreeding and genetic decline. "The habitat of the Qinling subspecies has become fragmented due to human activities," said Fang, who said that giant panda habitats within the Qinling Mountains in Shaanxi province should be restored in order to speed up communication between small populations.

"Unless the species is in imminent danger, interbreeding between the two subspecies should be avoided as much as possible. Otherwise the fertility of the offspring may be reduced, which would be very bad for the Sichuan subspecies population," said Fang.

Guang Xuanmin, another co-author of the study, told Chengdu-based Red Star News that the study provided important resources for giant panda breeding, protection and research.

The ultimate goal of protecting endangered animals is to help them adapt so they can survive in the wild. Species can go into decline from a loss of genetic diversity due to disturbance of the wild population caused by humans, Fang said.

Wang Junwei and Cai Jingwen contributed to this story.