Bandung, Indonesia Sentinel — The Javan tiger (Panthera tigris sondaica) declared extinct in 1980, may not be lost after all, according to recent discoveries that have reignited hopes among conservationists in Indonesia. The Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) is following up on reports from villagers in Cipeundeuy, South Sukabumi, who claim to have spotted the elusive animal in 2019, accompanied by footprints, claw marks, and a few stray hairs that appeared to belong to the rare species.
DNA analysis of the hairs showed a potential match to the Javan tiger, which has spurred a call for further investigation. However, researchers emphasize that additional studies are needed to confirm the existence of the tigers.
The Javan tiger was one of three tigers subspecies endemic to Indonesia and inhabited the Javan Island. Along with its relative from Bali, the Bali tiger, it was declared an extinct species. Leaving Sumatran Tiger from Sumatra, the only remaining tigers living in the wilderness of Indonesia.
The news has excited Indonesian wildlife protection groups. Setyawan Pudyatmoko, Director General of Natural Resources Conservation and Ecosystems at the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, expressed optimism about the findings. “This research raises the exciting possibility that Javan tigers may still roam these lands. We’re committed to pursuing this lead,” Pudyatmoko said.
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In response, the ministry plans to deploy camera traps and collect further DNA samples across a broader area to verify the tiger’s presence. They will also consult with genetics experts to deepen the investigation.
The researchers involved used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis, a type of maternal genetic material found outside the cell nucleus, to examine the hair samples. The mtDNA was then compared to archival samples collected from Javan tigers in the 1930s, as well as samples from other tiger subspecies and the Javan leopard (Panthera pardus melas).
Their findings suggest a close match between the recent sample and the genetic signature of Javan tigers from nearly a century ago.
“If it’s confirmed that the Javan tiger is not extinct, it will immediately become a protected species,” Pudyatmoko added, urging all parties, including local communities, to support conservation efforts if the tiger is indeed rediscovered.
(Raidi/Agung)
