Biodiversity and conservation
Zoos: Zoos play an important role by educating the public about the
endangerment of certain species. They also participate in breeding programs,
aiming to increase the population and genetic variation of those species. Zoos
also undergo research to assist the endangered species any way they can.
Botanic gardens: Botanic gardens often maintain living collections of rare and
endangered species of plants, helping to conserve them and maintain the
biodiversity. Furthermore, botanic gardens may operate seed banks, aiming to
conserve and restore the endangered plant species.
National and marine parks: National and marine parks provide protected
habitats for the endangered species, safeguarding ecosystems and preventing
habitat loss and degradation. In addition, they often regulate the area to prevent
hunting, fishing, and other activities that may endanger the species. Lastly,
botanic gardens conduct research on plant conservation and ecology, as well as
provide educational programs that aim to educate the public about the
endangered species and ways they can help to conserve the plant species and its
habitat.
‘Frozen zoos’ and seed banks: ‘Frozen zoos’ and seed banks often store
genetic information from endangered species, providing a backup in case of
population declines or extinction events. Genetic information stored in ‘frozen
zoos’ and seed banks can be used for research on genetic diversity, and breeding
programs focusing on conservation of endangered species.
Methods of assisted reproduction:
1. IVF:
IVF involves fertilization of sperm with egg outside the body, in a laboratory
setting.
Scientists collects eggs from female mammals, often through hormone-
induced ovulation. Sperm is collected from male mammals.
The sperm and egg is combined in a petri dish to facilitate fertilization.
Once fertilization occurs, the resulting embryos are cultured in a laboratory
for a brief period to allow it to develop to a certain stage.
After culturing, viable embryos can be transferred into surrogate mothers
or frozen for future use.
2. Embryo Transfer:
Embryo transfer involves the transferring of the pre-existing embryos into a
reproductive tract of a surrogate mother.
Embryos may get produced through natural mating, artificial insemination,
or IVF.
These embryos are transferred into surrogate mothers of the same or
related species. These surrogates are carefully selected based on their
ability to carry the pregnancy and provide the appropriate care for the
offspring.
This technique allows for the genetic material of rare or endangered
individuals to be propagated.
3. Surrogacy:
Surrogacy can be used when the endangered species faces challenges
related to pregnancy or birth complications.
For instance, if a female of the endangered species is unable to carry out
the pregnancy, either due to health issues or reproductive abnormalities,
the embryo can be transferred to the surrogate of the same or close
species.
Careful consideration is given to genetic compatibility and the welfare of
both the surrogate and the offspring.
Controlling invasive species:
Controlling invasive species is essential for variety of reasons. Here
are some of the key reasons why controlling invasive species is
important:
Biodiversity Conservation: Invasive species would often outcompete
other native species for resources such as water, food, and habitat. This
can negatively affect the biodiversity as it can lead to decline to the
native species to the point of extinction. As a result, there will be
disruption in the ecological balance and loss of biodiversity.
Ecosystem stability: Native ecosystems have a system where every
species have adapted and evolved to interact with one another; when
the invasive species are introduced, they can disrupt these ecosystems
by altering nutrient cycling and other processes. This disruption van lead
to habitat degradation and loss of ecosystem.
Threats to the endangered species: Invasive species pose a
significant threat to the endangered species by, predating upon them,
competing with them for resources, or altering their habitat. Controlling
invasive species is crucial to ensure that the extinction of these
endangered species may not undergo.
Impact on human health: Some invasive species may pose a threat
to the wellbeing of a human. For example, certain invasive plant species
may cause human allergies and skin irritation, while some invasive
animal species may be a vector of some diseases that can spread to the
domestic animals and the humans. Controlling these species helps to
reduce such health risks.
Economic costs: Invasive species can cause substantial economic
losses on agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and infrastructure. They can
damage crops, reduce agricultural productivity, clog waterways, and
increase the costs of pest control and management. Controlling can
reduce the economic losses.
Role in conservation of the International Union for the
Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and
Flora (CITES)
IUCN: Global advocates for biodiversity and sustainable resource use are the
IUCN. It works on conservation policies and projects with governments, non-
governmental organizations, and scientists. The Red List of Threatened Species is
one of the scientific assessments and research projects carried out by the
organization. It facilitates capacity-building initiatives by offering tools and
training. It encourages efficient protected area administration and organizes
conservation initiatives tailored to each species. The IUCN also offers
recommendations on best practices for protected area management, biodiversity
conservation, and sustainable development.
CITES: The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild
Fauna and Flora (CITES) regulates and protects endangered species of plants and
animals, ensuring their survival. It facilitates cooperation among member
countries to enforce regulations, combat illegal trade, reduce the number of
exploitation and ensure that the endangered species are well provided and
protected. CITES offers capacity-building programs, technical assistance, and
training workshops to help member countries implement CITES regulations
effectively. It also raises public awareness about the importance of conserving
endangered species and the impacts of international trade on biodiversity.
