New DNA Study Reveals Promising Future for Cambodian Elephants

Based on DNA analysis, scientists found a larger number of diverse Asian elephants living in the northern Cambodia region than they had previously thought. Research teams tracked down 51 surviving Asian elephants at wildlife sanctuaries across northern Cambodia to support efforts to conserve the endangered species.

Research scientists and Cambodia’s Environment Ministry worked with the Fauna & Flora conservation group to gather elephant DNA from dung samples that helped find distinct animals in their population as well as their gender diversity. Researchers stated that the remaining quality habitat makes it possible for this population to grow when it receives effective protection. Research shows that northern Cambodia can develop into an important conservation area for protecting this species.

Pablo Sinovas from Fauna and Flora in Cambodia states the study offers sound directions to save elephants despite ongoing environmental damage. The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland helped us research this project using funds from USAID and Britain’s People’s Postcode Lottery. Scientists want to take this study to all Southeast Asian nations to learn more about this endangered species across its natural habitat.