Abstract

• The fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus), categorized as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), is increasingly threatened across its range. The fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) is currently listed as "Vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List, with a population decline of approximately 30% over the past three generations (2010–2015) due to habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict. This study aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity of P. viverrinus individuals in Myanmar, particularly those housed at Yangon Zoological Garden, and to assess their genetic status in comparison with reported populations from other countries. In December 2023, fecal samples from three captive fishing cats (N=3) were collected for genetic analysis. DNA was extracted and PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) was used to amplify the mitochondrial cytochrome b (cyt b) gene from fecal DNA samples of fishing cats. Of the three samples, three were successfully amplified and subsequently sequenced using Big Dye terminator sequencing. Results from the NCBI database indicated that the Myanmar samples showed a 99% genetic similarity to fishing cat populations from India. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the two Myanmar cats comprised a distinct cluster with identical haplotypes, suggesting minimal genetic divergence within this population. Comparative analyses also showed the closest genetic distances to fishing cats from Thailand and Indochina and sundaland. This study underscores the genetic relatedness of fishing cat population from Yangon Zoological Garden with other regional populations, providing valuable insights into the species‘ distribution and aiding conservation efforts across their range.