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SR Vol.47 [2010] >
SR Vol.47(05) [May 2010] >
| Title: | Frozen Zoos! |
| Authors: | Thakur, Mukesh
Javed, Ruhina |
| Issue Date: | May-2010 |
| Publisher: | CSIR |
| Abstract: | Despite there being numerous gene repositories in the country, there is
no initiative as yet to develop a national gene bank exclusively for the
preservation and utilization of wild animal germplasm. Genome Resource Bank
(GRB) or Frozen Zoo would provide significant benefits for wildlife managers as
it holds particular promise for endangered species.
IT’S not a zoo that you would particularly enjoy
visiting. Unlike the conventional zoo where antics of animals in captivity keep
you entertained, in a Frozen Zoo you are more likely to come across tanks
containing semen and embryos of wild animals frozen in liquid nitrogen.
Sometime in the future, when an animal in the wild is threatened with
extinction, it could be reproduced thanks to the gene material safely stored in
the Frozen Zoo.Wildlife reproduction is a
new and upcoming trend in conservation of wildlife. Practiced widely in several
countries, it is not yet frequently applied in India. There are several new
methods available today in wildlife reproduction including Cross-fostering, Artificial incubation, Artificial
insemination, and Embryo transfer. All these methods go a long way in boosting
genetic variability, increasing population size, and improving reproductive
success. |
| Page(s): | 44-48 |
| ISSN: | 0036-8512 |
| Source: | SR Vol.47(05) [May 2010]
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