GENETIC RESOURCE BANKS FOR CONSERVING WILDLIFE SPECIES: JUSTIFICATION, EXAMPLES AND BECOMING ORGANIZED ON A GLOBAL BASIS

Abstract The cryopreservation of germ plasm and embryos combined with assisted reproduction play a continuing, vital role in sustaining and improving animal agriculture. It only is logical that similar types of technologies could be useful for preserving other forms of bio- and genetic-diversity, many of which are under the threat of extinction. The benefits of genetic resource banking for conservation purposes are even more profound than for domesticated livestock. In addition to preserving genetic vigor and enhancing captive propagation, these frozen repositories could provide a high level of insurance against further losses of diversity or entire species. Particularly important is that biological material could be recovered from free-living animals, stored and used without removing more individuals from native habitats. Three ongoing research projects at the National Zoological Park involving cervids, mustelids and felids are reviewed to demonstrate the potential of assisted reproduction for species preservation. Furthermore, rapidly evolving global strategies are discussed that will provide organization to the systematic collection, storage and use of germ plasm, embryos, blood products, tissue and DNA. Even given current restricted financial support for efforts, all evidence suggests that genetic resource banks will be contributing significantly to the conservation of rare wildlife species as we enter the 21st century.