Scientists have discovered 3 new species of snow leopard

The snow leopard includes three sub-species, according to a new study.

An international team of scientists conducted an unexposed survey to collect DNA and arrange Panthera uncia's snow leopard genome. This is a carnivorous species that is difficult to detect, hunt and originate from the mountains of Central and South Asia.

The results of the genetic survey show that the species has three different genetic groups, each organized by specific geographical limits including:

1. The northern group, Panthera uncia irbis, is found in the Altai Mountains in Central Asia.
2. Center group, Panthera unciaides uncioides discovered distribution wandering the Himalayan and Tibetan plateaus.
3. Western groups, Panthera uncia uncia, are found in Tian Shan and Pamir mountains.

Scientists have discovered 3 new species of snow leopard Picture 1

The northern group seems isolated by the presence of the Gobi Desert, while the Southern and Western groups are divided by desert basins in the Himalayan region.

Trapping, tagging, and tracking snow snows in the wild are extremely difficult, because these predators live in extreme temperatures and weather conditions and oxygen levels are often low, making it difficult to continue close.

" This study is important because it provides a first look at how snow leopard populations are established and connected, moreover, snow leopard populations are related to other small species populations. will be more stable and sustainable, 'said researcher Jan E. Janecka, a biologist at Duquesne University in a press release.

The researchers hope that with a better understanding of the evolution of the snow leopard and their ecological characteristics, they can improve more conservation efforts on the leopard.

" Our research underscores the need for cross-border initiatives to protect this species of leopard and other wildlife in Asia ," Janecka said.

This research has just been published in the Journal of Genetics.