Iran is developing genetic maps for some of its most threatened wildlife species as conservation authorities turn to genomic research to improve breeding programmes, manage small populations and reduce the risk of extinction, as reported by Tehran Times, a TV BRICS partner.

The initiative, led by Iran's Department of Environment, aims to give conservation specialists a more precise picture of genetic diversity within endangered populations and provide scientific evidence for decisions about breeding, habitat management and species restoration.

Leila Ezzeddinlou, head of the National Museum of Natural History and Genetic Resources, said genetic and molecular research on priority wildlife species has been placed on the national conservation agenda.

The studies are designed to help preserve genetic diversity between and within populations, reduce inbreeding and genetic erosion, and maintain genes that allow animals to adapt to different environmental conditions. The resulting genetic information could also support future propagation, translocation and reintroduction efforts.

Three research agreements involving the Department of Environment, the University of Tehran's College of Agricultural and Natural Resources and Gorgan University have established a framework for several projects.

Researchers are examining genomic diversity and evolutionary relationships among populations of the Levant viper and Latifi's viper, with the work also exploring potential conservation and therapeutic applications of genomic markers.

Genetic profiles and maps are also being developed for the Asiatic cheetah, Persian black bear and Persian yellow deer, all of which face significant conservation pressures.

Another project is examining genetic variation, inbreeding and kinship among Persian zebras. The research, carried out with the provincial Department of Environment in Yazd, is intended to provide information needed to manage small and isolated populations before genetic diversity declines further.

The approach reflects a broader shift towards conservation strategies that combine field protection with molecular data. For species numbering only a small number of individuals, understanding which animals are genetically related can be critical when designing breeding programmes.

At the same time, conservation programmes have demonstrated that declining populations can recover when scientific management is combined with habitat protection and local participation.

Iranian officials cite the Persian yellow deer as one of the country's notable conservation successes. Once believed to have disappeared globally, the species was rediscovered in the Dez and Karkheh forests about 65 years ago. Conservation measures subsequently included captive breeding and transfers to suitable natural habitats.

The Persian zebra, a subspecies of the Asiatic wild ass, has also shown signs of recovery. A recent foal birth in Yazd province has helped push the estimated national population above 50 animals, according to Iranian officials.

The new genetic mapping programme is intended to complement these conservation efforts by focusing not only on the number of animals surviving but also on the genetic health of their populations.