Abstract: The progress in studies on genetic diversity of Equus przewalskii is reviewed from the aspect of genetic markers, such as the chromosome, blood group and allozyme, mitochondrial DNA, microsatellite DNA and MHC. After analyzing systematically the achievements in researching the genetic diversity of E. przewalskii at home and abroad, it can be found that there is still an inbreeding depression, which threatens the EPR population and genetic diversity of E. przewalskii, and the taxonomic issue between E. przewalskii and Equus caballus is still in debate. As the historical bottleneck effect and inbreeding have impacted severely the viability of E. przewalskii, it is necessary to document the genetic diversity of E. przewalskii in China so as to benefit the international gene flow and offer a theoretical basis for further conservation of E. przewalskii in China.  

Key words: Equus przewalskii, genetic marker, genetic diversity, conservation genetics