Captive Corbetts tiger numbers:

Around Asia and the U.S.A. approximately 60 of these tigers live in zoos. A significant number of those in Asian facilities have not had DNA analysis performed and are of unknown origin. This means that they are unable to be included in the studbook breeding program.

Adding to this problem is the fact that all captive tigers originate from only four animals. As with the South Chinese tiger, inbreeding and hereditary illnesses present a real problem for zoos.

Genetic diversity in Corbetts tiger:

Inbreeding can result in lowered sperm counts and infertility. Inbred animals also present with medical problems like crossed-eyes, sway backs and cleft palate. The intention of tiger studbooks is to chart the history and breeding of all captive animals so as to maintain a genetic balance.

Plans for increasing genetic diversity include the capture of further wild tigers for breeding purposes.

With the advent of the Indochinese Tiger Masterplan zoos in Malaysia have already developed a relatively large and successful captive management program.

Corbetts - Page 1&2: In The Wild | 3: In Captivity | 4: Subspecies Description | 5: Weight & Length Figures
| 6&7: Conservation

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