The world’s first ever rhino rehabilitation project that began in Dudhwa National Park of Uttar Pradesh 29 years ago has successfully passed the tests of genetic variability. Following apprehensions of inbreeding in the unicorns and the ensuing threats to the endangered species in the park, a study on their genetic diversity was recently conducted by Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
Such a study on rhinos that has allayed all such threats is the first of its kind conducted in the country. “Apprehensions on their possible inbreeding arose due to confinement of 32 rhinos within 27 sq kms and the fact that breeding was said to be mostly dominated by one male,” pointed out Dudhwa Field Director Shailesh Prasad. So, it was essential to get the study conducted.
The genetic analysis has, however, revealed that the situation is not alarming as predicted to be. It also indicates the ultimate success of this rehabilitation project that began way back in 1984, with five seed population, including one male and four females, added Prasad. The study that was conducted in the 27 sq km of rhino reintroduction area has, however, recommended on bringing genetic variability to avoid “inbreeding depression” in future. It has called for translocation of new individuals preferably males from either Assam or West-Bengal as they have more genetic variability than their counterparts in Nepal.
According to experts, while the results of the study augur well, the impact of in-breeding would take time to manifest in the rehabilitated population. The most dangerous being the species losing resistance to diseases. If new animals are introduced every five to seven years, new genes would be added to the gene pool and progenies would be healthy.
The results have, however, given a boost to the upcoming second rhino rehabilitation project, which is expected to take off in 2014, covering 1,000 hectares in Bhadhi-Churella Taal sector in Belraya Range of Dudhwa National Park. According to Chief Wildlife warden Rupak De, the State Government in consultation with its Assam counterpart is expected to bring at least six rhinos, including males and females to give rhino rehabilitation in the State a second boost in Dudhwa. The State Government has sanctioned Rs 32 lakh for the proposed project. The work of fencing, protecting it with barbed wires and construction of sheds is underway at the site. Some resident rhinos would also be shifted to the new habitat, informed De.