India’s First Frozen Zoo

Darjeeling’s Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park has launched India’s first frozen zoo. This innovative facility aims to preserve the genetic material of endangered Himalayan species. In collaboration with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology in Hyderabad, the zoo will store DNA samples in liquid nitrogen at minus 196 degrees Celsius. This initiative seeks to protect species like red pandas and snow leopards from extinction.

About Frozen Zoo

• A frozen zoo is a type of genetic cryobank that safely stores DNA, sperm, eggs, and embryos from endangered animals.
• The main purpose is to protect their genetic variety.
• This helps species that are at risk of disappearing.
• The materials are kept at very low temperatures to keep them usable.

Genetic Preservation

The process involves collecting tissue samples from both wild and captive animals, including those that die naturally or in accidents. A special lab has been set up at the zoo for this purpose. Samples are first stored at -20°C, and then preserved long-term at -196°C. This process started in July last year.

Future Applications

The genetic material in the frozen zoo can help in breeding endangered animals. Scientists can use surrogate mothers to bring back species. Techniques like artificial insemination, embryo transfer, and in-vitro fertilization may also be used. These methods are important as animal habitats shrink and climate change affects ecosystems.

Global Context

Frozen zoos exist in a few places worldwide, with fewer than a dozen in total. The first one was set up in 1975 by Kurt Benirschke at the Institute for Conservation Research in San Diego. Today, it holds over 8,400 samples from 800 species. A major breakthrough in 1999 saw the first successful transfer of a frozen embryo between species. At the Audubon Institute, an African wild cat kitten named Jazz was born to a domestic tabby cat.

Importance of Genetic Conservation

The frozen zoo in Darjeeling plays important role in conservation efforts. It aims to prevent species like the red panda and snow leopard from becoming extinct. By preserving their genetic blueprints, future generations can potentially restore these species to their natural habitats. This initiative marks the importance of genetic conservation in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2025

Category: Environment Current Affairs