Indian One horned Rhinoceros - Central Zoo Authority

Conclusion
One horned rhinoceros are mega herbivores inhabiting the riverine grasslands in the
Himalayan foothills. The species earlier listed as endangered has shown recent
signs of recovery and is currently listed as vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of
Threatened species. The species is currently managed as part of an international
effort and has several zoos holding the species outside India.
Indian zoos currently have 33 (18.15) specimens in captivity. Analysis of the captive
Indian population suggests that the current population has a high level of genetic
diversity but is threatened by low numbers. A target population size for Indian zoos
of 100 individuals to be achieved over 10 years is suggested for maintaining a
genetically viable and demographically stable population. The current population has
several animals of wild origin whose genes are not represented or underrepresented
in the captive population. A more equitable representation of the founder gene pool
would enhance the genetic stability of the captive population.
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