Do Cheetahs Have Identical Genetic Makeup?

Quck answer

No, cheetahs are not clones of each other. While cheetahs do have a relatively low genetic diversity, they are not identical to each other. In fact, cheetahs have distinct physical and behavioral differences, just like any other species. The low genetic diversity in cheetahs is due to a population bottleneck that occurred thousands of years ago, but they are still able to adapt and survive in their unique environments.

Wild Animals

Cheetahs often have similar markings, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they are clones. Due to a population bottleneck caused by an ice age, cheetahs have a low amount of genetic variation, with only one to 10 percent compared to other feline species. This lack of diversity can result in difficulties with reproduction, including high infant mortality rates and sperm abnormalities. In captivity, cheetahs have a low birth rate and high death rate. Even those that survive to adulthood are vulnerable to disease due to their virtually identical immune systems.

Additional Information

Related Articles

• The Process of Cloning
• How Genes are Activated and Deactivated
• The Threatened Cheetah
• Is it Ethical to Breed Endangered Species?
• What is Needed to Save All Endangered Species?

References

• Begley, Sharon. “A Question of Breeding.” National Wildlife Federation. 01 February 1991. (26 October 2014). http://www.nwf.org/news-and-magazines/national-wildlife/animals/archives/1991/a-question-of-breeding.aspx
• Gugliotta, Guy. “Breeding Cheetahs.” Smithsonian. March 2008. (26 October 2014). http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/breeding-cheetahs-20876365/?no-ist
• Gugliotta, Guy. “Rare Breed.” Smithsonian. March 2008. (26 October 2014). http://www.smithsonianmag.com/making-a-difference/rare-breed-20811232/?no-ist
• Menotti-Raymond, Marilyn and O’Brien, Stephen J. “Dating the Bottleneck of the Africa Cheetah.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. 29 October 1992. (26 October 2014). http://www.pnas.org/content/90/8/3172.full.pdf
• O’ Brien, S.J.; Wildt, D.E.; Goldman, D.; Merril, CR; and Bush, M. “The Cheetah is Depauperate in Genetic Variation.” Science. 29 July 1983. (26 October 2014). http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17755482
• Smithsonian National Zoological Park. “Animal Care Staff Took Extraordinary Measures to Keep Cubs Alive.” 23 May 2012.
• Smithsonian National Zoological Park. “Cheetah Conservation.” Date Unknown. (26 October 2014). http://nationalzoo.si.edu/SCBI/EndangeredSpecies/Cheetah/

FAQ

1. Are all cheetahs clones of each other?

No, all cheetahs are not clones of each other. While cheetahs do have a high degree of genetic similarity compared to other big cats, they are not identical copies of each other. In fact, the genetic variation among cheetahs is higher than previously thought.

2. Why do cheetahs have such a high degree of genetic similarity?

Cheetahs have a high degree of genetic similarity due to a genetic bottleneck that occurred approximately 10,000 years ago. This event caused the cheetah population to decrease dramatically, which led to a loss of genetic diversity.

3. Can cheetahs reproduce with each other?

Yes, cheetahs can reproduce with each other. However, inbreeding can lead to health problems and reduced genetic diversity.

4. Are cheetahs more susceptible to diseases due to their genetic similarity?

Yes, cheetahs are more susceptible to diseases due to their genetic similarity. This is because they have a weaker immune system and are more vulnerable to infectious diseases.

5. How do scientists study the genetic diversity of cheetahs?

Scientists study the genetic diversity of cheetahs by analyzing their DNA. This can be done by collecting samples of blood, hair, or tissue from cheetahs in different populations and comparing their DNA sequences.

6. What are the implications of low genetic diversity in cheetah populations?

Low genetic diversity in cheetah populations can lead to reduced fitness and increased susceptibility to diseases. It can also limit the ability of cheetahs to adapt to changing environments and reduce their long-term survival prospects.

7. What are conservation efforts doing to address the issue of low genetic diversity in cheetah populations?

Conservation efforts are working to address the issue of low genetic diversity in cheetah populations by implementing breeding programs and translocating cheetahs between populations. They are also working to protect cheetah habitats and reduce human-wildlife conflict.

8. What can individuals do to help conserve cheetah populations?

Individuals can help conserve cheetah populations by supporting conservation organizations, reducing their ecological footprint, and spreading awareness about the importance of biodiversity. They can also choose to travel responsibly and avoid supporting activities that harm wildlife.