Faiza Zahra
The project “Molecular Identification and Community-Driven Conservation of Endangered Musk Deer in the Himalayan National Park, Pakistan” seeks to fill key knowledge and conservation gaps for musk deer (Moschus spp.), an endangered species found in one of Pakistan's most ecologically important protected areas.
Musk deer are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List and are included in Appendix I of CITES because of the severe pressure they face, such as poaching, the illegal trade of musk pods, habitat loss, and the growing impacts of climate change. Despite their ecological and cultural importance, very little is known about their population status, distribution, and genetic identity in Pakistan.
This project will provide molecular-based identification of musk deer species in the Himalayan National Park, which will provide a reliable species-level data for conservation planning. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis will be used to explain the occurrence and evolutionary relationship of the species by using DNA extraction of non-invasive faecal samples. This will form a basis for evidence-based conservation policies such as habitat restoration, anti-poaching, and enhanced biodiversity monitoring policies.
More importantly, the project involves a community-based conservation strategy. The natural resources in the park are important to the local communities but the people who live around the park are usually unaware of the ecological significance of the musk deer. These communities will be involved in the project through awareness campaigns, participatory monitoring and training programs thus reducing poaching pressure and creating sustainable practices.
The results of this initiative will contribute to the international biodiversity agreements and international conservation agreements binding on Pakistan. In addition to musk deer, co-occurring endangered species like the snow leopard (Panthera uncia), Himalayan ibex (Capra sibirica) and other fauna of importance to the region will benefit from the conservation efforts put in place.
To conclude, the proposed project is an interdisciplinary effort combining molecular science with ecological studies and community involvement to solve desperate conservation requirements. Not only will it create baseline data on musk deer conservation, but it will also lead to protection of the ecosystem and sustainable coexistence between wildlife, communities and the Himalayan National Park.