Captive breeding

Question 1

aims of captive breeding programmes

Answer 1

1. increase the number of individuals of a species
2. maintain genetic diversity within the captive population
3. reintroducing animals to the wild if possible

Question 2

how do studbooks conserve genetic diversity

Answer 2

• they ensure exchangeshappen between zoos to increase the small gene pool within zoos which also reduces inbreeding.
• a studbook holder offers advice on which animals should or should not breed and the movement of animals between zoos

Question 3

issues with reintroduction of animals into the wild

Answer 3

• animals may not behave as in the wild if too used to captive breeding environments
• their habitat may have been destroyed
• small gene pool in individual zoos so they may lack any required genetic diversity to survive
• lack hunting skills
• may be susceptible to diseases in the wild

Question 4

seed banks

Answer 4

• aims to provide an insurance policy against the extinction of plants in the wild
• offer an economical and effective way to save seeds and prevent extinction

Question 5

process of storing seeds in a seed bank

Answer 5

1. collect seeds from the wild
2. identify seeds and check to confirm which species re present
3. seeds are dried and packed
4. store at -20 degrees
5. periodidc germination trails check on seed viability