SNP genotyping raw flourescent values from Asian Elephant in Prey Lang Extended Landscape, Cambodia

Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) populations are declining and becoming
increasingly fragmented. In central-northern Cambodia, the Prey Lang
Extended Landscape (PLEL) encompasses a vast area composed largely of
lowland evergreen and semi-evergreen forest, with the potential to support
Asian elephant population recovery in the country. To inform effective
landscape-level conservation planning, this study provides the first
reliable population size estimate for Asian elephants in PLEL, based on
non-invasive genetic sampling during the 2020-2021 dry season in three
protected areas: Prey Lang, Preah Roka and Chhaeb Wildlife Sanctuaries.
Further, it provides an assessment of the species’ range, habitat
suitability and connectivity within the landscape. Thirty-five unique
genotypes (individuals) were identified, of which 6 were detected in both
Chhaeb and Preah Roka Wildlife Sanctuaries, providing evidence that
elephants move readily between these neighbouring protected areas.
However, no unique genotypes were shared between Chhaeb/Preah Roka and the
less functionally connected southerly Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary. The
southern population is estimated to number 31 (95% CI: 24-41) individuals.
The Preah Roka / Chhaeb Wildlife Sanctuaries or northern population is
estimated to number 20 (95% CI: 13-22) individuals. Habitat loss is
prevalent both outside and inside the three protected areas however large
swathes of suitable elephant habitat remain within the landscape.
Fragmentation has occurred and connectivity outside of these protected
areas is very limited. While restoring the ability of elephants to move
between Preah Rokar/Chhaeb and Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuaries would
represent an ideal scenario, the practicality of implementing such a
restoration project is challenging. We recommend protection of remaining
suitable habitat and reduction of threats and disturbance to elephants
within these areas should be top priorities as the landscape holds the
potential to be restored to a national stronghold for this flagship
species, in turn resulting in the protection of a vast array of
biodiversity.