Conservation Science and Practice, Год журнала: 2024, Номер 6(9)

Опубликована: Авг. 22, 2024

Abstract Leadbeater's possums ( Gymnobelideus leadbeateri ) are a critically endangered marsupial found in restricted area of cold, wet forest South‐Eastern Australia. The majority inhabit highland forest, with one outlying lowland population. In 2012, breeding program was established for the when this genetically distinct population faced imminent extinction. Successful reproduction by international zoo‐based between 1970 and 2010 led to widespread belief that species bred readily captivity. Lowland have not 2012–2021 contemporary captive conservation program. This study reviewed historic captive‐breeding data 84% (162/194) reached reproductive maturity; 37% males n = 30) 39.5% females 32) bred, success highly skewed towards subset fecund individuals (14% 15% produced 75% 80% all offspring). Although lack output animals could be explained if age at mortality lower than highlands possums, comparison longevity had no significant difference. Conservation objectives specify how may support situ recovery wild populations integral programs. A reflective analysis past husbandry records allowed misconceptions approaches implemented management program, reducing benefits high profile threatened species. case provides lesson programs illustrates importance well‐defined objectives, integration ex strategies, objective, systematic timely available evidence inform improve outcomes real time.

Язык: Английский