Biobanks: A Hopeful Future for Endangered Species

Understanding Biobanks

A biobank is an essential facility dedicated to the collection and storage of biological samples, such as cells and tissues, derived from various animals. This initiative primarily aims to preserve the genetic material of endangered species, facilitating future research endeavors and assisting in the potential revival of species on the brink of extinction.

How Do Biobanks Operate?

• Collection of Samples: Researchers gather cells and reproductive materials, including sperm and eggs, from endangered animals. This process can even include samples from animals that have already passed away.
• Cryogenic Preservation: The collected samples are preserved at extremely low temperatures (-196°C) in liquid nitrogen, which ensures the longevity and integrity of the cells.
• Use for Conservation: In the future, these preserved cells can be utilized to study genetic diversity, enhance breeding programs, and explore the possibility of species revival through cloning or advanced reproductive technologies.

Importance of Biobanks

• Many animal species are critically endangered, with only a small number remaining in their natural habitats.
• Environmental changes, habitat destruction, and climate change are driving numerous species toward extinction.
• Biobanks serve as a genetic backup, ensuring that even if a species vanishes from the wild, its DNA can be harnessed for future conservation initiatives.

Real-World Impacts

• The American black-footed ferret was once declared extinct in the wild but has been successfully revived through the use of stored DNA and breeding programs.
• Efforts to bring back the northern white rhino are also underway, utilizing preserved DNA following the death of the last male in 2018.

Why Choose Darjeeling Zoo?

Darjeeling Zoo is renowned for its breeding programs focusing on endangered species such as the Red Panda. Establishing a biobank at this location ensures the preservation of genetic material from these animals. Plans are also in motion to expand this initiative to other zoos, including the National Zoo in Delhi and Nandankanan Zoo in Odisha.

Conclusion

In conclusion, biobanks represent a beacon of hope for biodiversity conservation. They play a crucial role in ensuring that future generations may still witness species that might otherwise face extinction.