Population genetics and health assessment of the Arabian oryx (Oryx leucoryx) at the Al-Wusta Wildlife Reserve in Oman

Abstract

Arabian oryx (Oryx leucoryx) is one of the priorities of wildlife conservation in the Arab region due to its heritage and biological value. The Al-Wusta Wildlife Reserve (WWR) was consequently established in Oman. The goal was to reintroduce Arabian oryx again into the wild in Oman but again, it was defeated due to serious poaching. Hence, the remaining individuals were retrieved from the wild into captivity under management and breeding. To improve the management and breeding of the species in captivity, it is important to better understand the genetic diversity, haematological parameters, diseases associated with the animals and their health situation. In this study, various genetic markers and methods of of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (from reduced-representation sequencing) are used to assess the genetic diversity and populations variation of the Arabian oryx at WWR. In addition to this, some epidemiological data (haematological parameters and blood smears) are also analysed together to explore some of the health issues of these animals. This thesis presents novel and important information on the population genetics, and some aspects of health assessment, of the endangered Arabian oryx in Oman. Also, it will be of use to current and future captive management of the species and ongoing conservation effort.