Riyadh: King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and the Arabian Leopard Fund have signed a strategic cooperation agreement to study the genome of the Arabian leopard, marking the first integrated scientific initiative aimed at supporting breeding and reintroduction programs for this endangered species.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the signing of the agreement is an extension of the scientific achievement accomplished by KACST in developing the first high-quality genome of the Arabian leopard. This serves as a scientific foundation for future research that supports efforts to protect the species, which is considered one of the world's rarest leopard subspecies and classified as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with fewer than 120 estimated to remain in the wild.
Under the partnership, the Arabian Leopard Fund will provide biological samples from breeding centers and offer logistical support, while KACST will lead the scientific and technical implementation of the project. This will be achieved through developing high-quality reference genomes for the Arabian leopard and conducting advanced genetic analyses, aimed at assessing genetic diversity, genetic health, and differences between populations.
This collaboration is supported by Chairman of the Board of Directors of KACST Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Arabian Leopard Fund Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan. It is part of efforts to strengthen national initiatives to protect the Arabian leopard and promote scientific collaboration and innovation in support of environmental goals.
Managing Director of the Arabian Leopard Fund Waleed Aldayel emphasized that this partnership will provide a comprehensive genetic map of the Arabian leopard, enabling informed decision-making for breeding programs and reintroduction efforts. He noted that the collaboration aligns with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals, aimed at protecting and preserving natural heritage through science and innovation.
Vice President for Sustainability and Environment Sector at KACST Dr. Abdullah AlKhudhiri stated that KACST will develop a high-quality, chromosome-level reference genome for the Arabian leopard using the latest genomic sequencing technologies. This will contribute to a better understanding of its genetic structure, assessing genetic diversity, and strengthening conservation efforts.
The project's outcomes are expected to guide key decisions related to Arabian leopard conservation, including breeding management and reintroduction planning, while developing long-term strategies to ensure the species' sustainability. This aligns with the Kingdom's commitment to ecosystem restoration based on scientific principles.
This agreement reflects a direct commitment to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative, both prioritizing biodiversity protection and ecosystem restoration. The Arabian leopard's survival is closely linked to the health and sustainability of the natural habitats that the Kingdom is working to restore.