You are a manager of Addo National Park in south Africa, where a small herd of elephants occurs. The population originated from
less than 10 individuals that survived the intense poaching of the 1800s. Which of the following would you do most urgently to reduce the likely impact of inbreeding depression? A.
Expand the size of the national park
B.
Move older reproductive individuals out of the park to encourage younger animals to breed
C.
Provide veterinary care to decrease mortality rates of older individuals
D.
Increase the variability of habitats within the park using artificial water holes
E.
Bring in some elephants of reproductive age from other populations within southern Africa
The correct option is <u>E. Bring in some elephants of reproductive age from other populations within southern Africa</u>
Explanation:
Inbreeding depression can be described as a phenomenon in which the fitness of a particular kind of species is reduced due to inbreeding of the organisms.
As the Addo National Park contains only a few elephants, hence there are only a few chances of diversification in their breeding patterns. If other elephants are brought into the Park, then there will be more options for breeding and breaking the inbreeding depression.
