AMERICAN ZOO AND AQUARIUM ASSOCIATION Species Survival Plan Taxon Advisory Group Fauna Interest Group Scientific Advisory Group
TO: Anne Zimmerman, Director San Gabriel Zoo San Gabriel, New Mexico FROM: Barry Grady, Coordinator Sumatran Tiger Species Survival Plan Association of Zoos and Aquariums RE: Breeding plans for Sumatran tiger

The numbers are fair for a Jambi-Bukit mating. If two cubs were born, the net change in gene diversity for all of captive Sumatran tigers would increase by 0.02%, rising from 91.41 (that is, 91.41% of the original gene diversity still retained) to 91.43. That's not great, but it's a move in the right direction. Also, while a Jambi-Bukit match has a slightly higher inbreeding coefficient compared to other possible matches, it is not high enough to be a concern.

Genetics is not the only consideration, of course. Bukit is currently at Miami, which shares a warm zoo with your zoo, minimizing climatic adjustment necessary. She may not be the best choice, but she is a reasonable one.

We will inform you of our breeding recommendation soon.