Impact of ex situ-conservation on the genetic diversity of the wildcat

Assessing the influence of ex situ-conservation in zoos via population genetic analysis using the wildcat (Felis silvestris) and its close relatives as a model


This PhD thesis is about the impact of ex situ-conservation on the genetic diversity of the wildcat (Felis silvestris) and its nearest relatives. In this project, I want to assess how ex situ conservation programs influence the genetic diversity of breeding stocks in zoos. For this purpose, I want to compare the genetic diversity of zoo populations with the diversity in wild and reintroduced populations of Felis silvestris. Data will be obtained using molecular markers (microsatellites). The results of this analysis will also be communicated to the planned breeding program for the European wildcat.

The following questions will be attended:

Husbandry and reproductive success
       How does ex situ conservation influence population genetics and reproductive success of the wildcat?
       How do housing and husbandry conditions influence reproductive success?

Genetic diversity
       How high is the genetic diversity of zoo populations compared to wild or reintroduced populations?
       Do inbreeding and/or outbreeding play a relevant role in zoo populations?
       Is it possible to conserve the genetic diversity through ex situ-breeding?

Comparison with closely related species
       Do zoo populations of species (or subspecies) in different red list categories show differences in genetic diversity?
       How does coordination of ex situ-breeding programs influence the maintenance of genetic diversity?

Species that will be analysed in this project include:
       Wildcat (Felis s. silvestris)
       Gordon’s wildcat ( Felis s. gordoni)
       Sandcat (Felis margarita)
       Manul / Pallas’ cat (Otocolobus manul) 

This project is sponsored by the scholarship programme of the German Federal Environmental Foundation and works in cooperation with the studbook keepers for the sandcat, the manul and Gordon's wildcat.

Contact: Kathrin Witzenberger

Europäische Wildkatze (Felis silvestris) im Zoo Nordhorn (Foto: A. Hochkirch)