The Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) and scientists from the University of the Philippines Mindanao-Philippine Genome Center (PGC) have completed the first mitochondrial genome study of Philippine Eagles from the Greater Mindanao Faunal Region (GMFR). Lead author Michael G. Bacuse explained that the results will directly support conservation breeding, as the findings show that while the species’ overall genetic diversity is low, the eagles possess a variety of maternal lineages. By mapping these lineages, the PEF can secure new genetic stocks from the wild and pair more birds in a smarter way to retain genetic diversity. The study analyzed mitochondrial genomes from 32 eagles housed at the Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) and the National Bird Breeding Sanctuary (NBBS), discovering that eagles across the GMFR share very little genetic variation, confirming how close the species is to extinction. Despite the low overall nucleotide diversity, results show that the PEF’s captive collection retains a high diversity of maternal lineages. Researchers discovered two main genetic clusters of Philippine Eagles and identified three distinct haplotypes, including one from Samal Island Natural Park. The study confirmed that the Philippine Eagle belongs to the subfamily Circaetinae within the raptor family Accipitridae. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) changes slowly over time and is inherited through the maternal line, making it crucial for breeding the critically endangered species and guiding their eventual release into the wild. The PEF plans to integrate the new genetic insights into its breeding plans, including securing new genetic stocks from Samar, the Pantaron Range, Mt. Busa – Kiamba, and Kampalili – Puting Bato, which harbor unique eagle maternal lineages. These lineages will help guide future reintroduction efforts in Luzon and Leyte, where suitable eagle habitats still exist.
