India’s first wildlife biobank, also known as a ‘frozen zoo’, is now fully operational at the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (Darjeeling Zoo) in West Bengal. This is the first facility of its kind in an Indian zoo, aimed at preserving genetic material from endangered species. The project is part of a national programme, with plans to expand similar biobanks to other major zoos, including the National Zoo in Delhi and Nandankanan Zoo in Odisha.
About India’s First Wildlife Biobank
- What is the Wildlife Biobank?
- A genetic preservation facility where DNA, cellular, and tissue samples from animals, especially endangered species, are stored.
- Established in July 2023, the biobank is now fully operational.
- So far, it has collected DNA samples from 60 animals across 23 species.
- Storage and Preservation Process:
- Samples, including reproductive cells (gametes) from deceased animals, are stored at minus 196°C in liquid nitrogen.
- This cryogenic preservation ensures the long-term conservation of genetic diversity.
- Scientific Collaboration and Future Potential:
- The biobank operates in collaboration with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
- The stored genetic material can be used for future research and potential revival of species on the verge of extinction.
- Significance in Wildlife Conservation:
- Acts as a safeguard against species extinction due to climate change, habitat loss, and other environmental threats.
- Aims to preserve the genetic diversity of India’s rich wildlife heritage.
- Has the potential to aid in cloning or assisted reproduction technologies to restore populations of critically endangered or extinct species.
- By preserving genetic material, the facility can play a crucial role in wildlife research, conservation, and possibly even species revival in the future. With expansion plans to other zoos, this initiative could strengthen India’s biodiversity protection strategy significantly.
Darjeeling Zoo (Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park)
- Location & Significance: India’s largest high-altitude zoo, renowned for its specialized focus on alpine and Himalayan wildlife.
- Captive Breeding Excellence: Specializes in the captive breeding of alpine species, including: Snow leopards, Himalayan wolves, Red pandas.
- Endangered Fauna: Home to several endangered species, such as: Gorals, Siberian tigers, Rare birds.
Darjeeling Zoo plays a critical role in the conservation of Himalayan biodiversity and serves as a major center for research and captive breeding of species adapted to high-altitude environments.