CRYORESERVE
Every day animals are pushed to the brink of extinction, either through habitat reduction or loss of superior genetics when animals die through natural disasters, diseases, poaching etc. Zoological Parks and Private Ranches play a big role in species conservation with captive breeding programs, but up till now the reliance was mostly on old-fashioned mating.
Loss of Genetic Diversity (Inbreeding) Threat
Although the traditional conservation approach has had much success, the number one risk with small isolated populations is breeding with close relatives. When this happens, the genetic makeup of the individuals becomes more and more uniform, and genetic flaws become increasingly common. This phenomenon is called inbreeding. The genetic diversity that currently exists in captive and small wild populations will steadily dwindle without continues input from other populations.
Cryopreservation of endangered species, like the Black Rhino, can help reintroduce genetic diversity to existing populations. Who knows, someday it might offer a pathway to reintroduce extinct species from cryopreserved genetic material.
Why Genetic Diversity?
- The more genetic variability there is within a specific species, the higher the likelihood that at least some of the individuals will survive changes to the environment.
- Genetic diversity reduces the incidence of unfavorable inherited traits.
Cryopreservation stores lost diversity
Because of space limitations it is simply not possible for Zoos and animal parks to ensure adequate genetic diversity. Long term plasm storage can minimize the holding space requirements and increase the number of species that can be conserved through breeding programs. The accumulation of genetic reserves into extant breeding populations will ensure continuance of genetically diverse species. Cryopreservation of gametes and embryos provides the most powerful tool for conservation, by allowing use of long dead donors as the genetic parents of future generations.
We can now collect germ plasm in the wild to sustain genetic diverse breeding programs, without removing free-ranging animals from the field.
Immediate action is required! Help us to stop the depletion of thousands of years of mutation and natural selection.
Inbreeding
- Loss of Habitat
- Small isolated populations in private or public hands
- Lack of cooperation and exchange between public and private owners
- Loss of superior genetics when animals die (natural disasters, diseases, hunting)
- Lack of protocols and techniques for successful insemination and embryo transfers
“Cryopreservation of gametes and embryos can provide a powerful tool for conservation, by allowing use of long dead donors as the genetic parents of future generations “
Genetic Diversity is Key
- The more genetic variability there is within that species, the higher the likelihood that at least some of the individuals will be survive changes to the environment.
- Genetic diversity reduces the incidence of unfavorable inherited traits. In a small, isolated population of organisms, individuals may be forced to breed with close relatives. When this happens, the genetic makeup of the individuals becomes more and more uniform, and genetic flaws become increasingly more common. This phenomenon is called inbreeding.