Biology – Conservation | e-Consult

Genetic diversity is crucial for the long-term survival of a species. It provides the raw material for natural selection, allowing populations to adapt to changing environmental conditions, resist diseases, and avoid inbreeding depression. A population with low genetic diversity is more vulnerable to extinction.

'Frozen Zoos' (Cryopreservation): Cryopreservation directly addresses the issue of genetic diversity by preserving genetic material (sperm, eggs, embryos) from a variety of individuals within a species. This creates a 'genetic library' that can be used to:

• Restore populations that have low genetic diversity.
• Introduce genetic variation into isolated populations.
• Maintain a record of the genetic makeup of a species for future research.

Seed Banks: Seed banks contribute to genetic diversity by storing seeds from a wide range of individuals within a plant population. This ensures that there is a reservoir of genetic variation that can be used to:

• Propagate plants with desirable traits.
• Restore habitats with a diverse range of plant species.
• Maintain the genetic diversity of wild plant populations.