Many scientists estimate that the earth is headed for a mass extinction event, primarily due to habitat loss, which in turn, leads to the degradation of biodiversity. It is estimated that in the next 30 years, more than one thousand mammal species, as well as a similar number of amphibians, birds and fish, will disappear, as well as an untold number invertebrate species. Each species has its own unique place in the ecosystem and when a creature becomes extinct, a huge amount of information is lost with it.
The aim of the Frozen Ark Project is to take DNA samples from currently endangered species and preserve them at extremely low temperatures. The stored DNA could give scientists many research opportunities, including a better understanding of why species die out and in the future may even allow the scientists to reconstruct a once extinct creature.
What Kinds of DNA Samples are Stored?
The type of sample depends on the creature in question. In the case of larger mammals, a sample of skin may be taken, as well as eggs or sperm. In the case of small invertebrates, the whole creature may be frozen. The advantage of taking eggs, sperm or embryos means that scientists can use these to introduce genetic variation in the case of captive bred animals that would otherwise die out due to inbreeding.
Scientists are positive about how long the samples can be kept, as it is known that certain samples preserved by nature have lasted for thousands of years. They conclude therefore, that under the ideal conditions produced in the Frozen Ark, the samples could potentially be kept for tens of thousands of years. The cells will be kept in liquid nitrogen at -196 degrees Centigrade in various specialist buildings in different countries that make up part of the project.
Which Animals are Already In the Ark?
Animals with DNA already preserved in the Ark include the Scimitar-Horned Oryx, which has been classified as extinct in the wild since 2003. A captive breeding program is taking place, but attempts to reintroduce wild populations have been difficult.
Another creature preserved in the Ark is the Yellow seahorse, which has become endangered due to trade as an ingredient in Chinese medicine. Although they are being bred successfully in captivity, the stored DNA provides an additional backup to ensure the future survivial of the species.
The British Field Cricket had seen numbers dwindle to less than 100 individuals. Although a breeding and field release program has been very successful, the information stored in the Ark will provide valuable research information for scientists.
Whatever the future holds for these endangered creatures, the Frozen Ark will be a valuable archive for scientists wishing to learn more about the many diverse creatures that we share the planet with.
Sources:
BBC News "Frozen Ark to Save Animal DNA"
Louise Jones - I have always enjoyed writing as a hobby, but started writing reviews online in February 2010 for Dooyoo, and later Ciao. In the beginning ...
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