animals

Friday, September 09, 2005

Evoluthion...

In broad terms the position of the family Felidae within the traditional classification system is well established, but the more detailed structuring of phylogenetic relationships of the felid species is much less certain. Modern methods of molecular study have bought to light many relationships which in the past have been hard to support using the more traditional methods of morphological and behavioural study. Today the need to establish true and specific relationships between the members of the family Felidae is of utmost importance. To sustain the worlds populations of wildcat species, biologists, zoologists and conservationist must have a clear understanding of the genetic links and relationships in order to help manage breeding programmes and conservation efforts.