1. African Leopard (Panthera pardus pardus): Found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, this is the most common leopard subspecies.
2. North Chinese Leopard (Panthera pardus japonensis): This critically endangered subspecies is found in the mountainous forests of Northeast China and is considered one of the rarest leopards.
3. Amur Leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis): Also critically endangered, the Amur leopard is native to the Russian Far East. It's characterized by its thick, dense fur, adapted to cold climates.
4. Indian Leopard (Panthera pardus fusca): Found across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, the Indian leopard is a common and adaptable subspecies.
5. Indochinese Leopard (Panthera pardus delacouri): This subspecies is found in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar.
6. Persian Leopard (Panthera pardus ciscaucasica): Found in the Caucasus Mountains and parts of Southwest Asia, the Persian leopard is critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.
7. Arabian Leopard (Panthera pardus nimr): Found in the Arabian Peninsula, the Arabian leopard is also critically endangered due to habitat loss and human conflict.
8. North Chinese Leopard (Panthera pardus japonensis): This subspecies is found in the mountainous forests of Northeast China. It is critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting.
9. Javan Leopard (Panthera pardus melas): Found on the Indonesian island of Java, the Javan leopard is critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting.
Important Note: Leopard subspecies are often difficult to differentiate in the wild, and there is some debate about the specific number and classification of subspecies. Ongoing research and genetic studies are helping to refine our understanding of these fascinating creatures.