Decoding the gene of the big cat family line

International experts say a genetic map of tigers, lions and snow leopard has been established, hoping to boost efforts to protect these endangered species.

The group of scientists, led by Yun Sung Cho of the Gene Research Foundation in Suwon (Korea), deciphered the genome of a Siberian tiger at the Everland Zoo in Korea.

Everlanduk Tiger at Everland Zoo is the object used to decode the genome - (Photo: Everland Zoo)

According to a report published in Nature Communications, the researchers say the decoding process shows that tigers share 96% of their genomes with domestic cats.

Next, the group continued to map the genes of four other large cats, including African lions, snow leopard, Bengal white tiger and African white tiger.

Genetic maps show how big cats possess superior muscle strength, the ability to digest large quantities of meat, and smell in the "top" form.

At the same time, the study also provides clues to the genes behind the white lion's pale fur, and why the snow leopard is suitable for the climate and terrain of the snowy mountains.

Tiger's genetic genetic map will be an important source of data to study genetic diversity, which can be used to compare with all other tigers in the world.