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Of a different kind

COMPILED BY SUBAJAYANTHI B.

CLOUDED LEOPARD: Borneo's biggest predators. PHOTO: AP

Genetic scientists and World Wildlife Fund for Nature research say that Clouded leopards found on Sumatra and Borneo represent a new species. Until now it had been thought they belonged to the species that is found on mainland Southeast Asia. Clouded leopards are the biggest predators on Borneo, and can grow as large as small panthers. "Genetic research results clearly indicate that the clouded leopards of Borneo should be considered a separate species," said Dr. Stephen O'Brien, head of the Institute's Laboratory of Genomic Diversity. "DNA tests highlighted around 40 differences between the two species." Supporting evidence came from examination of fur patterns. The fact that Borneo's top predator is now considered a separate species further emphasises the importance of conserving the island's wildlife.

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