The first-ever genetic study of endangered Asian elephants has been conducted in Cambodia's northern plains, estimating that the population of the mammals in the region was 51, said a Fauna & Flora Cambodia's press release on Thursday. 

Conducted by Fauna & Flora in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, the study was carried out during the 2020-2021 dry season and utilised non-invasive genetic sampling techniques across three key protected areas: Prey Lang, Preah Roka, and Chhaeb Wildlife Sanctuaries, the press release said.