The exact measure of genetic variation is unknown. One goal of conservationists may be to increase the gorilla population to a size where the carrying capacity can be studied. Currently, the population is too low to be able to determine the number of gorillas that the environment can support. The mountain gorilla has no known predators, except for humans. The two main dangers gorillas face are poaching and deforestation.
Gorillas also die of human diseases.
These diseases are introduced into the gorillas' environment by tourists. The tourists' fecal matter and general presence carry bacteria and viruses that could be devastating to the gorilla population. A measles outbreak occurred in the Virunga Volcanoes in 1988. 5 Gorillas have been known to be afflicted with appendicitis, pneumonia, heart disease, and cirrhosis of the liver. 5 Other gorilla deaths have been attributed to gangrene.