Ecological biochemistry of endangered species for conservation

Abstract

Endangered species face unprecedented biochemical stress from habitat degradation, yet comprehensive metabolic profiling remains underutilized in conservation assessments. This research characterized biochemical stress markers across five critically endangered Malaysian species: Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni), Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis), Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus), Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), and Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica). Blood samples were collected from 147 individuals across protected areas and degraded habitats between 2021-2023. Analysis included cortisol concentrations, antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase), oxidative stress markers, and metabolic panel assessments. Results revealed significant correlations between habitat quality indices and biochemical parameters. Animals from degraded habitats showed 43.7% higher cortisol levels and 31.2% reduced antioxidant capacity compared to protected area populations. Species-specific vulnerability patterns emerged, with Sumatran rhinoceros showing the highest stress sensitivity. These biochemical indicators provide quantitative tools for assessing population health and prioritizing conservation interventions based on physiological vulnerability rather than population counts alone.