A new chapter in Caspian seal conservation through science and international collaboration

Aselle Tasmagambetova, founder of CAIER, which established the Caspian Seal Research and Rehabilitation Center, met with Professor Rod Wing, an internationally recognized scientist in the fields of genomics, genetics, and evolutionary biology.

The main focus of the meeting was a unique scientific project aimed at sequencing the Caspian seal genome for the first time. Last year, following one of the expeditions to the Caspian Sea, a Caspian seal blood sample was delivered to KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology). The sample has now been successfully sequenced, and the resulting genomic data are being analyzed in collaboration with international partners.

This research will provide a deeper understanding of the Caspian seal’s genetic diversity, evolutionary history, and adaptation to the unique conditions of the Caspian Sea.

The meeting also explored opportunities to expand genetic research across the wider Caspian seal population and to strengthen collaboration between KAUST, M. Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University, and international research partners.