Introduction
The world is facing a biodiversity crisis. Tens of thousands of animal species are becoming extinct every year, and about half of the world’s biodiversity has disappeared since the 1970s. This alarming trend is driven by factors such as population growth, habitat destruction, invasive species, wildlife diseases, and climate change. To address this crisis, innovative approaches are necessary. Biotechnology, with its rapid advancements, holds significant promise in safeguarding nature. In this article, we will explore five emerging biotechnologies that can help save endangered species and discuss their potential applications in conservation.
Biobanking: Preserving Genetic Diversity
Biobanking involves the collection and storage of biological samples for research and conservation purposes. Examples include the San Diego Frozen Zoo, the Frozen Ark projects, and numerous seed banks. These samples provide tissues, cell lines, and genetic information that can be used to restore and recover endangered wildlife through genomic insights and reproductive technologies. Proper sample collection for conservation purposes is a challenging task, both technically and logistically. Therefore, it is essential to facilitate the ongoing collection of biological samples globally from species facing extinction.
Reproductive Technologies: Cloning and Genetic Engineering
Reproductive technologies, such as cloning, can be a game-changer in helping recover and critically imperiled mammals. Cloning biobanked cell lines can help restore genetic diversity to endangered species. For instance, scientists at the San Diego Zoo Global are working to save the northern white rhinoceros by cloning biobanked cell lines. The last male northern white rhinoceros, Sudan, died in 2018, leaving only two females alive. This technology can help restore genetic diversity to the species and potentially save it from extinction.
Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
Climate change is another significant threat to biodiversity. Agricultural biotechnology can help mitigate and adapt to climate change by developing crops and animals that are more resilient to changing environmental conditions. For example, drought-tolerant crops like wheat, rice, and soybean are being developed to help farmers adapt to droughts. Heat-tolerant cattle are also being bred to reduce heat stress in hot climates.
Advanced Biotechnologies for Conservation
Advanced biotechnologies like de-extinction and cloning are being used to revive extinct species. For instance, scientists at Revive & Restore used frozen cells of a female ferret that died more than 30 years ago to clone a black-footed ferret named Elizabeth Ann in 2020. This technology can help revive extinct species and restore genetic diversity to endangered species.
The Intended Consequences Framework
The Intended Consequences framework is a guiding principle for responsible genetic interventions in conservation. It emphasizes thorough risk assessments and detailed studies to test how proposed interventions could affect ecosystems. This framework is essential for ensuring that genetic interventions do not harm the environment and are effective in achieving conservation goals.
Conclusion
Biotechnology is revolutionizing the way we approach conservation. By leveraging advanced biotechnologies, we can restore genetic diversity to endangered species, adapt to climate change, and mitigate its impacts. However, it is crucial to engage the public and stakeholders in these technologies to build trust and ensure responsible use. The Intended Consequences framework provides a framework for responsible conservation interventions. As we move forward, it is essential to continue exploring the potential of biotechnology in conservation and to address the challenges and concerns associated with its use.
“Biotechnology is simply one more tool in this earnest race against extinction. We want to see resilient wild populations flourishing in nature.” – Nishan Degnarain, Managing Director at Breakthrough Ocean Ventures
References
- Degnarain, N., & Phelan, R. (2018, March 20). 5 Biotechnologies That Might Help Save Endangered Species. Fortune.
- USDA. (n.d.). Biotechnology and Climate Change.
- Scientific American. (2021, June 15). To Restore Biodiversity, Embrace Biotech’s ‘Intended Consequences.’
- Alliance for Science. (2022, September 26). New biotechnologies can help restore extinct species, say conservation scientists.
- Alliance for Science. (2022, February 17). How biotech aids biodiversity.