Genetic Study Offers Hope for Cambodia’s Endangered Elephants

Fauna&Flora

A groundbreaking genetic study has revealed that Cambodia’s northern plains host a larger and more diverse population of endangered Asian elephants than previously thought, offering new hope for their conservation.

Conducted by Fauna & Flora alongside Cambodian and Scottish researchers, the study analysed elephant dung to estimate a population of 51 elephants in the Prey Lang, Preah Roka, and Chhaeb wildlife sanctuaries—far more than earlier anecdotal estimates of 20-30 individuals. Crucially, genetic testing showed these elephants descended from two distinct lineages, boosting their chances of long-term survival.

Despite this positive finding, the study warns that a population of at least 1,000 is needed to prevent inbreeding and ensure survival beyond the next century. Cambodia’s total wild elephant population is estimated at just 400-600. Fragmentation remains a major threat, with elephants moving between Preah Roka and Chhaeb but not to Prey Lang, underscoring the need to expand conservation efforts.

Experts say this research provides vital insights for future protection strategies, with plans to apply similar methods across Cambodia and beyond to better track and safeguard elephant populations.

-2025-03-28