March 14, 2025
PHNOM PENH – A groundbreaking study, published today in scientific journal PeerJ, provides the first robust population estimate for Asian elephants in the northern plains of Cambodia.
Conducted by Fauna & Flora, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, the study was carried out during the 2020-2021 dry season.
It utilised non-invasive genetic sampling techniques across three key protected areas: The Prey Lang, Preah Roka and Chhaeb Wildlife Sanctuaries.
The Royal University of Phnom Penh conducted the genetic research, with technical support from the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland.
The researchers determined that the region is home to at least 51 elephants – much larger than previous estimates.
“As wildlife across the globe is increasingly confined to shrinking and degraded habitats, the management of small, fragmented populations is becoming ever more critical. In this study, we combined molecular and spatial modelling techniques to assess the population size, genetic diversity and habitat availability of an important yet imperilled group of Asian elephants in Cambodia,” noted Pablo Sinovas, Fauna and Flora country director.
“Despite its small size, this population retains high levels of genetic diversity, an essential foundation for long-term survival. Combined with the significant habitat we estimate remains available, this offers a rare and valuable opportunity for recovery. Our assessment provides a strong scientific basis for targeted conservation action, and we hope it can also serve as a model to guide similar efforts for large mammals facing comparable challenges worldwide,” he added.
Samples of ‘genetic material’ were collected during the 2020-2021 dry season. PHOTO: FLORA AND FAUNA/THE PHNOM PENH POST
Crucially, despite being smaller than the 200-300 strong population of the Cardamom Mountains and Eastern Plains, samples from the Prey Lang population demonstrated high genetic diversity – a critical factor for the long-term viability of the species.
According to the research report, the region has enough suitable habitat remaining for the population to grow safely, provided the animals are properly protected.
“This study is only the second published study in Cambodia to use genetics to estimate wildlife population sizes and the first to assess the genetic diversity of elephants in the country. It is also the first research in Cambodia to combine population size, genetic diversity and habitat suitability assessments” explained a Fauna and Flora Cambodia statement.
It noted that few such studies exist globally, meaning the research will likely serve as a blueprint for future worldwide projects.
“Having a high level of genetic diversity within a population is fundamental to its long-term future, so we were very pleasantly surprised by the results of the project. It’s been a team effort by partners from Cambodia and Scotland, supported by funding from the US and the People’s Postcode Lottery,” noted Dr Alex Ball, WildGenes conservation manager for the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland.
“We now hope to expand this methodology across Cambodia and beyond, helping to build a clearer picture of Asian elephant numbers, which will inform how best we can work to help reverse the decline of these spectacular animals,” he continued.
The evidence of Prey Lang’s potential to become a stronghold for the Kingdom’s elephant population represents a boon to Cambodia’s biodiversity conservation goals.
The work was supported by the USAID Greening Prey Lang project and the People’s Postcode Lottery.