A new genetic study of the elusive saola, a deer-like creature from the mountainous rainforests of Vietnam and Laos, has shed new light on the species’ ancestry and habitat. The study, which analyzed DNA from 26 individual saola hunting trophies, reveals that there are two distinct populations of saolas that diverged between 20,000 and 5,000 years ago. The findings offer a glimmer of hope for the species’ survival, with experts suggesting that a captive breeding program could be established using genetic material from the two populations.
Forecast for 6 months: In the next 6 months, we can expect to see increased efforts from conservation groups to locate and protect the remaining saola populations in Laos. This could include the deployment of motion-triggered trail cameras and other monitoring equipment to track the animals’ movements.
Forecast for 1 year: Within the next year, we can expect to see the establishment of a captive breeding program for the saola in Laos. This program will rely on genetic material from the two distinct populations of saolas, and will aim to increase the species’ numbers and reduce the risk of extinction.
Forecast for 5 years: In the next 5 years, we can expect to see significant progress in the conservation of the saola. This could include the establishment of protected areas in Vietnam and Laos, and the development of effective management plans to protect the species and its habitat. We may also see the reintroduction of saolas into the wild, using animals bred in captivity.
Forecast for 10 years: Within the next 10 years, we can expect to see the saola population begin to recover, with numbers increasing significantly. This could lead to the species being downlisted from “critically endangered” to a lower category, and could also pave the way for the saola to be considered for removal from the IUCN Red List.
