Cheetahs, recognized for their incredible speed, are a single species, Acinonyx jubatus. Within this species, scientists identify several distinct subspecies. These distinctions arise from variations in genetics, geographical distribution, and subtle physical characteristics among different populations.
The Concept of Cheetah Subspecies
A subspecies is a geographically isolated population of a species with unique traits and genetic differences, yet capable of interbreeding with other populations of the same species. This classification signifies genetic divergence insufficient for separate species status. New genetic research continually refines the understanding and classification of cheetah subspecies. Currently, four or five are generally recognized.
Identified Cheetah Subspecies and Their Characteristics
The most widely accepted classifications delineate several distinct cheetah subspecies, each occupying a specific geographical range with minor morphological variations. The Southeast African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) is found across Southern and East Africa, inhabiting grasslands, savannas, and arid areas. This subspecies is the most numerous among all cheetah populations.
The East African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus raineyii) roams the savannas and grasslands of countries like Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. It is often distinguished by subtle coat patterns.
The Northeast African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus soemmerringii), also known as the Sudan cheetah, is present in areas such as South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Uganda. This subspecies tends to be slightly darker and larger, sometimes displaying more pronounced white markings around its eyes.
The Northwest African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus hecki), or Saharan cheetah, inhabits the Sahara desert and Sahel regions. This critically endangered subspecies typically has a shorter, paler coat, with spots that may fade from black to light brown on the legs, and occasionally lacks tear stripes on its face.
The Asiatic cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus venaticus) is now found almost exclusively in the arid central regions of Iran, representing the only surviving cheetah population outside of Africa. This critically endangered subspecies generally appears smaller with a less woolly winter coat compared to its African relatives, lacking the prominent mane seen in some African juveniles. Its historical range once extended across the Arabian Peninsula, the Near East, and into India.
The Unique Case of the King Cheetah
The King Cheetah stands out due to its distinctive fur pattern, which differs markedly from the typical spotted coat. This unique appearance is not indicative of a separate species or subspecies, but rather a rare genetic mutation. This mutation involves a recessive gene, meaning a cheetah must inherit this specific allele from both parents to exhibit the King Cheetah pattern.
This genetic variation results in large, blotchy spots that often merge into stripes, particularly along the back, giving it a somewhat striped appearance. The King Cheetah is genetically identical to its more commonly spotted counterparts within the Acinonyx jubatus jubatus subspecies, primarily found in Southern Africa. Its unique coat is an example of genetic diversity within a single population.
Genetic Homogeneity Across Cheetahs
Cheetahs exhibit an unusually low level of genetic diversity across their entire species, a characteristic that sets them apart from most other felids. This genetic uniformity is believed to be the result of at least two historical population bottlenecks, periods where the species experienced drastic reductions in numbers. One such event occurred approximately 100,000 years ago, and another significant bottleneck happened around 10,000 to 12,000 years ago, possibly linked to the Late Pleistocene extinction event.
The consequence of this limited genetic variation is a reduced ability for cheetah populations to adapt to environmental changes and a heightened susceptibility to diseases. For instance, skin grafts exchanged between unrelated cheetahs are often accepted without rejection, which is highly unusual for a wild animal population and indicates their close genetic resemblance. This inherent genetic similarity is a biological characteristic of the cheetah species.