Mummified cheetah DNA reveals multiple subspecies once lived in the Arabian Peninsula

Researchers extracted whole genomes from three naturally mummified cheetahs found in caves near Arar, Saudi Arabia, and found two older specimens genetically closer to the Northwest African cheetah subspecies, indicating at least two lineages once lived on the Arabian Peninsula.

Researchers surveying caves in northern Saudi Arabia in 2022 and 2023 found seven naturally mummified cheetahs in five caves near the city of Arar. The remains included well-preserved soft tissue and skeletons, prompting genomic analysis. Scientists extracted complete genome sequences from three of the mummies, which the authors say is the first time DNA has been recovered from naturally mummified large felines. Genetic results showed that two of the older analyzed specimens were closer to the Northwest African cheetah lineage than to the Asiatic subspecies previously assumed to be the region's sole lineage. Key findings: - Seven naturally mummified cheetahs were found in five caves near Arar during surveys in 2022–2023. - Researchers extracted whole-genome sequences from three of the mummies, reported as the first DNA recovery from naturally mummified large felines. - Two of the oldest analyzed specimens were genetically closer to Acinonyx jubatus hecki, the Northwest African cheetah, rather than the Asiatic subspecies. - The team also recorded skeletal remains of 54 additional cats in the caves and dated five samples, with the oldest around 4,000 years old. - Two of the analyzed mummies were dated to roughly 130 to 1,870 years ago. - The findings were published in Communications Earth & Environment, and the authors plan further genomic analysis of remaining mummies and fragments. Summary: The DNA results indicate that at least two cheetah subspecies occupied northern Saudi Arabia over millennia and represent the easternmost recorded presence of an African cheetah lineage on the peninsula. The authors say the genetic evidence refines understanding of historical cheetah distribution and could inform future reintroduction planning. Further genomic work on the remaining mummies and skeletal fragments is planned to clarify subspecies identities and timelines.