A Stanford University-led study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), has revealed that the snow leopard (Panthera uncia) possesses the lowest genetic diversity among all big cat species — even lower than the cheetah. 

Key Findings of the Stanford Study

• Lowest Genetic Diversity: The species has the lowest heterozygosity (genetic variation) among big cats, indicating extremely limited genetic diversity.

• Historical Small Populations: The low diversity is attributed not to recent inbreeding but to a persistently small population size throughout evolutionary history, suggesting ancient isolation and stable but small populations.
• Purging of Harmful Mutations: Over generations, deleterious mutations were naturally “purged” as individuals carrying harmful genes failed to reproduce successfully. This historic selection allowed snow leopards to remain
• Comparison with Other Species: Snow leopards showed even lower heterozygosity than cheetahs, long known for genetic depletion, yet carry fewer harmful homozygous mutations than several other Panthera species.

About Snow leopard (Panthera uncia) 

• The Snow Leopard is a large, elusive cat species found in the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia.
• Known for its thick smoky-grey fur, long tail, and ability to thrive at high altitudes (3,000–5,500 m) in cold, rugged terrain.
• It is often called the “Ghost of the Mountains.”
• Habitat & Range:
  • Found across 12 countries, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Mongolia.
  • In India, it is found in the Himalayan regions: Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Physical Adaptations:
  • Strong hind legs allow it to leap up to six times its body length.
  • A long tail aids in balance and agility, and also wraps around its body to provide warmth during rest.
• Home Range and Population Density: 
  • Home range varies from 4.6 sq. miles in Nepal to over 193 sq. miles in Mongolia.
  • Population density ranges from less than 0.1 to over 10 individuals per 38.6 sq. miles, depending on prey availability and habitat quality.
• Prey and Diet: Feeds on blue sheep, Argali wild sheep, ibex, marmots, pikas, and hares.
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
  • CITES: Appendix I
  • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I

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