请给出一段关于熊猫的描述，让它听起来像是一篇科学论文。
The giant panda, Ailuropoda melanoleuca, is a bear species endemic to the mountains of central China. The panda features a distinctive black and white fur pattern, with black fur covering its shoulders, limbs, and ears, while white fur dominates its head, abdomen, and tail. Its diet consists primarily of bamboo, but may also include small mammals and birds. Though classified as a carnivore, the panda has a primarily herbivorous digestive system.

Recent genetic studies have revealed that giant pandas are not as genetically diverse as other bear species, due in part to their specialized herbivorous diet and low reproductive rate. Conservation efforts have been implemented to protect and increase the population of this threatened species, including habitat protection and captive breeding programs.