Effects of Inbreeding on Survival of Captive Bengal Tigers (Panthera tigris tigris) in Lahore Zoo

Abstract

The risk of inbreeding within captive tiger populations is a fundamental problem in conservation of wildlife. Objective: To determined high levels of inbreeding can result in reduced genetic variation, low reproductive performance, increased cub mortality and reduced immune competence. Lahore Zoological Gardens famous for its tiger exhibits. The current study has been palnned to understand the inbreeding in Bengal tigers (Panthera tigris tigris) at Lahore due to the production of offspring among similar individuals of the same families without change in blood line. Stillbirths and rickets are an inbreeding issue for tigers at Lahore Zoo. Methods: The issue of inbreeding was highlighted in 2008. From 2008 to 2020, repeated cases of inbreeding have occurred. Results: Among the 19 new-born cubs, 9 were male and 10 were female. The normal birth rate for cubs was 63% and stillbirth was 37%. The percentage of white-colored cubs was 72%. The newborn tigers suffered from various conditions such as autolysis, squint eyes, blue eyes, white color, malformation, and infection. Because of this, tiger breeding was banned in 2010. In 2018 and 2022 new tigers was imported to replace the blood line. A pair of them produced four cubs, all of which died at the age of 11 weeks. Conclusions: Based on this, it was recommended that the genetic analysis of the existing tigers at Lahore Zoo and at different captive sites in the province be performed. Apart from that, revision of the collection plan, blood line change and artificial insemination are also recommended