Awarded 8 billion for panda dung research

Studying panda feces helps scientists open new doors to help conserve this endemic animal species.

Pandas eat about 60 different types of bamboo and some other plants and small animals. Experts believe that a better understanding of the panda's diet will help manage and conserve the bear's population in China.

Two bears, Tian Tian and Yang Guang, at Edinburgh Zoo, Scotland, have provided "specimens" to help scientists develop DNA techniques to help understand the world of these cute animals.

Previously, it was very difficult for scientists to find out what pandas eat. Dr Linda Neavers, head of the Edinburgh Royal Garden (RBGE) research team, said: "Technology will help detect DNA in panda dung samples to determine exactly what they eat."

New technologies will help overcome the limited knowledge we have about China's endemic bears. Dr. Linda believes the research will open up new horizons and help better understand the bears' reproduction, mating and behaviour. At the same time, this work will help conserve China's endangered pandas.

Last year, scientists took cell samples from pandas' cheeks to identify dangerous diseases that are causing their numbers to decline.

RBGE's latest panda dung research, in partnership with the Royal Scottish Zoological Society, has been awarded £250,000 (around VND8 billion) for its achievements. The award is provided by the Leverhulme Trust.

According to Khoahoc.tv