Lions, Tigers And Pandas, Oh My! The Importance Of Genetic Management And ART In Species Preservation

Main Category: Veterinary
Also Included In: Genetics
Article Date: 07 Dec 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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This fascinating and entertaining lecture raised physicians' awareness of the role of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in the genetic management of endangered wildlife species. This lecture was based on experiences by Smithsonian scientists in applying techniques in reproductive sciences to the study and genetic management of rare species.

Dr. David Wildt spoke to the remarkable species differences simply among cats. He emphasized the fact that there is a general lack of specific and general knowledge of each species. There are differences relating to geographic dispersion, innate behavior and variability.

An important function of endangered animal management programs is to maintain the integrity of species. Those animals in captivity should be like those in wild, and there should be genetic diversity.

An example of poorly preserved genetic diversity is the Florida panther. This species has absolutely no genetic diversity. It is like an inbred strain of laboratory mice. They have sperm morphology defects, cryptorchidism, vaginal abnormalities and atrial septal defects.

Dr. Wildt spoke of the giant panda - a favorite of all. The female giant panda is in estrous once per year and for 24 hours. Thus there is not much opportunity for reproduction and this can be affected by sexual incompatibility, an issue that exists even in wild. Thus, ART is essential for the preservation of this species. In 1998, there were 104 giant pandas in captivity, and the population was not self- sustaining. This resulted in a concerted effort to study and understand the species. They were seen to be aggressive animals (rather than cute and cuddly animals). Their reproduction was affected by diet, i.e., the need for a bamboo diet to reproduce. Since employing ART, the population has reached 300 in captivity and is self-sustaining. There were many other examples of ART in management of wildlife species including the black-footed ferret, dolphins, and killer whales.

Dr. Wildt clearly demonstrated the importance of genetic management in the preservation and survival of endangered species.

Presented by David E. Wildt, PhD, at the 64th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine - November 8 - 12, 2008 - San Francisco, California

Reported by UroToday.com Contributing Editor Harris M. Nagler, MD

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