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Lynx Narrowly Escapes Extinction (From 25 Reproductive Females to 400) Thanks to Ancient DNA

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Author Josie Messeter

Lynx
Lynx via Unsplash

The Iberian lynx, once critically endangered, is making a remarkable comeback. It is thanks to ancient DNA, generating for genetic diversity, that has allowed the lynx to escape extinction at the last second. This rare wildcat went from having just 25 reproductive females in 2002 to over 400 in 2023. The recovery is a result of conservation efforts and a surprising genetic boost from ancient interbreeding.

The Iberian Lynx’s Close Call with Extinction

An adult female lynx with cubs.
An adult female lynx with cubs. Image by trybex via Depositphotos.

In 2002, the Iberian lynx population reached a critical low, with only 25 reproductive females remaining. The species was at risk of vanishing entirely. Human activity, such as habitat destruction and hunting, contributed to the drastic decline. Without intervention, the lynx’s future looked bleak.

From 25 to 400 Reproductive Females

Lynx resting in snow forest.
Lynx resting in snow forest. Image by jurra89 via Depositphotos.

Thanks to intensive conservation programs, including breeding and reintroduction efforts, the Iberian lynx population has seen impressive growth. For now, we can safely say that the lynx has escaped extinction. By 2023, over 400 reproductive females were recorded. This turnaround showcases the success of coordinated conservation efforts – even when it might seem too late, we shouldn’t give up. That being said, the population still remains below the target of 1,100 reproductive females. So despite good results, much hard work is still needed.

Lacking Genetic Diversity Is One of Their Major Challenges

A closeup of the lynx in its natural habitat.
A closeup of the lynx in its natural habitat. Image by Wirestock via Depositphotos.

A major concern for the Iberian lynx has been its extremely low genetic diversity. Populations with limited genetic diversity struggle to adapt to environmental changes, leaving them vulnerable to disease and other threats – this is referred to as “inbreeding depression.”

What is Inbreeding Depression?

Canadian lynx in the wild
Canadian lynx in the wild. Image via Depositphotos.

Inbreeding depression refers to the negative effects that occur when closely related individuals breed, leading to a higher chance of harmful genetic mutations being passed on to offspring. In the case of the Iberian Lynx, inbreeding depression becomes almost inevitable when their overall population has grown so small. Inbreeding depression results in reduced fitness, which can manifest as lower reproductive success, increased susceptibility to diseases, physical deformities, or shorter lifespans. Likewise, it further weakens the species’ ability to adapt to environmental changes, making them more vulnerable to extinction. Essentially, it becomes a vicious cycle: they are on the brink of extinction which results in inbreeding depression, and in turn the inbreeding depression makes them even more vulnerable to extinction.

The Role of Genetic Rescue in Conservation

lynx
Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx). Christoph Anton Mitterer, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

To combat low genetic diversity, conservationists have employed “genetic rescue” strategies. This involves mixing populations to reduce inbreeding and increase diversity. For the Iberian lynx, reintroducing individuals from different populations has helped boost genetic variety, offering hope for the species’ long-term survival.

Ancient DNA Reveals Past Interbreeding

Lynx in zoo scratching his nails on trunk.
Lynx in zoo scratching his nails on trunk. Image by ysbrand via Depositphotos.

Recent studies show that the Iberian lynx received a genetic boost from its larger cousin, the Eurasian lynx, through interbreeding over the last 2,500 years. This interbreeding increased the genetic diversity of the modern Iberian lynx, potentially playing a crucial role in its survival today. So what conservationists are administrating artificially today, has already occurred naturally thousands of years ago.

Ancient Lynx Had Even Lower Genetic Diversity

Closeup Adult Lynx in wild winter nature.
Closeup Adult Lynx in wild winter nature. Image by VolodymyrBur via Depositphotos.

In a surprising discovery, researchers found that ancient Iberian lynx populations had even lower genetic diversity than modern ones. DNA from lynx bones dating back 2,500 to 4,000 years showed that these ancient cats were even more genetically fragile, yet they managed to survive—likely thanks to occasional interbreeding with the Eurasian lynx.

Lessons for Conservationists Worldwide

Close-up portrait of an Eurasian Lynx in autumn forest (Lynx lynx). Wildlife scenery with vivid colors. Image via depositphotos.

The way in which the Iberian lynx escaped extinction provides important lessons for global conservation efforts. Genetic rescue, while risky, can offer a lifeline for species on the brink of extinction. But despite the risks involved, it’s still worth a shot when the extinction looms large overhead. By understanding the benefits and challenges of interbreeding, conservationists can better plan for the future of endangered species worldwide.

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