San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Oliver Ryder spearheads the newly formed Animal Biobanking for Conservation Specialist Group (ABC SG) under the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Species Survival Commission. Wildlife populations have fallen by 69% since 1970, so the network aims to collect, bank, and share genetic resources for current and future conservation efforts. The initiative will start by surveying existing viable storage facilities and identifying gaps in representation and stakeholder participation to ensure maximum inclusivity. Biobanking remains a necessary step in understanding biodiversity and preserving genetic diversity in the face of climate change.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) is committed to conserving and protecting endangered species. One of the critical components of their conservation efforts is their biobanking program, which allows them to preserve genetic material from threatened species for future use. With a network of biobanks in the United States and internationally, SDZWA is at the forefront of conservation efforts to ensure the survival of several endangered species.
What is Biobanking?
Biobanking is collecting, processing, and storing biological material for future use. This natural material could include animal cells, tissues, blood, or DNA samples. These samples provide an essential resource for researchers, who can then use them to study genetic diversity, understand the functioning of species, and develop conservation strategies.
Conservation Biobanking
Conservation biobanking aims to protect and preserve endangered species by saving their genetic material. Traditional biobanking operations focus on storing biological specimens for medical research. However, conservation biobanking takes it one step further by incorporating natural materials from endangered species. This allows for the restoration of genetic diversity within populations and can aid in reintroducing endangered species to the wild.
SDZWA Biobanking Network
SDZWA’s biobanking network comprises conservation partnerships with different organizations and institutions worldwide. Over the years, the organization has established partnerships with various zoos, museums, universities, and research institutes worldwide. By working together, these organizations have set up biobanks, selected protocols, and collected and preserved genetic material from various endangered animals.
The Genetic Connection
One of the critical benefits of the biobanking network is the genetic link it establishes among species that share a common ancestor. Researchers can use genetic markers to track species’ evolution and study how they relate. This information can be essential in understanding the natural history of species and can help determine the best conservation measures to ensure their survival.
In conclusion, SDZWA’s biobanking network is a crucial conservation tool for preserving the genetic material of endangered species. Partnerships with other organizations and institutions worldwide strengthen their biobanking effort, allowing for a more comprehensive and connected approach to conservation. By preserving biodiversity, SDZWA is ensuring the long-term survival of threatened and endangered species for generations to come.
