Darjeeling’s ‘Frozen Zoo’ Expands DNA Conservation to Wild Animals
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park’s Initiative
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling, famous for its ‘frozen zoo,’ is now working on preserving the DNA of endangered wild animals in North Bengal. The zoo recently organized a workshop for all field officers in the region, including veterinary experts.
Workshop for Field Officers
- Zoo director Basavaraj Holeyachi led the workshop
- Hands-on training on genetic sample preservation
- Kartikeyan AN, chief scientist from Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), offered technical guidance
Dedicated Lab and Preservation Kit
The zoo has set up a dedicated lab to preserve gametes and DNA of endangered species. A preservation kit has been provided to ensure safe transportation of samples. The latest addition to the ‘frozen zoo’ is samples from a leopard cat.
- 80 samples of 24 species stored
- Capacity to store 3,000 samples
- Preservation kit keeps samples frozen during transit
India’s First ‘Frozen Zoo’
India’s first ‘frozen zoo’ is a genetic ark preserving Himalayan wildlife DNA in liquid nitrogen-filled steel tanks. This cryogenic conservation initiative ensures the genetic blueprints of these species remain intact even if they decline in the wild.
Conservation Breeding Programs
The zoo is a leader in conservation breeding programs for red pandas, snow leopards, and Tibetan wolves. It has also undertaken conservation work for species like the markhor, Mishmi takin, and Himalayan black bear.
Growing Popularity of Frozen Zoos
Frozen zoos offer a last line of defense against extinction by preserving genetic material from captive animals. The Darjeeling zoo started its bio-banking efforts last July, collecting and preserving genetic material from red pandas, Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, and gorals.
