<
https://theconversation.com/how-gene-mapping-almost-all-remaining-kakapo-will-help-nzs-rare-night-parrot-survive-212451>
"The genetic mapping of almost the entire kākāpō population has shed new light
on specific traits that will help conservation biologists in their efforts to
save the critically endangered flightless night parrots.
It also provides a blueprint for conservation genomics of other threatened
species.
Kākāpō are remarkable and unusual birds, found only in Aotearoa New Zealand.
They only breed every few years, triggered by the availability of certain
forest foods such as the fruits of the native rimu tree.
The parrots’ life history and habits, combined with the impact of people,
brought them close to the brink when their population dropped as low as 51
during the 1990s.
Thanks to the sustained efforts of the Department of Conservation, in
partnership with Ngāi Tahu iwi, the kākāpō population is now up to 247 birds,
living on offshore, predator-free islands. Earlier this month, four male kākāpō
returned to the mainland for the first time in decades when they were
transferred to the Maungatautari sanctuary.
But kākāpō suffer from diseases such as the fungal infection aspergillosis and
many of their eggs are infertile.
Our genome analysis provides major insights into the genetic reasons behind
these problems and will aid the birds’ recovery."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
