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Why isn't there a DNA archive for endangered species anywhere in the world? (lemmy.world)

submitted 1 year ago by pinkdrunkenelephants@lemmy.world to c/asklemmy@lemmy.world

7 comments fedilink hide all child comments

Okay, so today I am at the zoo getting drunk and ogling animals, and after a long chat with one of the zookeepers, I am now forced to ask this question.

Like, climate collapse is a real thing that will render most species extinct, and most conservation efforts are focused on, well, conserving what we have. But I don't know of any effort to preserve samples of animal DNA, be it blood, gametes or whatever, so that if a species does go extinct, it could in the future, in principle, be revived.

So are there any zookeepers, biologists or other knowledgeable people in the house who could explain this? It seems like a serious overlooked gap in species preservation that needs to be closed sooner rather than later.

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[–] Num10ck@lemmy.world 15 points 1 year ago (1 children)

because just having the DNA isn't enough, you need a viable suitable fertilized cell of that animal, and then would need a compatible womb able to accept and nurture it until viable. then that creature would need to be raised in a manner that allows it to live to maturity and then partnered with a suitor. it of course needs the right food and area. so like it needs a zoo, and vets, and animal husbandry experts. and its got to be cute or interesting enough to be worth paying to visit.

[–] pinkdrunkenelephants@lemmy.world 4 points 1 year ago (1 children)

Fair points. Aren't they getting ready to bring back mammoths using regular elephants though? Like, surrogates can be things

[–] Num10ck@lemmy.world 5 points 1 year ago

yea its worth a shot, better than nothing, but still not successful yet, ever. theres a pretty good book about trying this in detail you might enjoy: Jurassic Park.