1
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Wylie MJ, Kitson J, Russell K, Yoshizaki G, Yazawa R, Steeves TE, Wellenreuther M. Fish germ cell cryobanking and transplanting for conservation. Mol Ecol Resour 2023. [PMID: 37712134 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.13868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The unprecedented loss of global biodiversity is linked to multiple anthropogenic stressors. New conservation technologies are urgently needed to mitigate this loss. The rights, knowledge and perspectives of Indigenous peoples in biodiversity conservation-including the development and application of new technologies-are increasingly recognised. Advances in germplasm cryopreservation and germ cell transplantation (termed 'broodstock surrogacy') techniques offer exciting tools to preserve biodiversity, but their application has been underappreciated. Here, we use teleost fishes as an exemplar group to outline (1) the power of these techniques to preserve genome-wide genetic diversity, (2) the need to apply a conservation genomic lens when selecting individuals for germplasm cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy and (3) the value of considering the cultural significance of these genomic resources. We conclude by discussing the opportunities and challenges of these techniques for conserving biodiversity in threatened teleost fish and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Wylie
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant & Food Research Limited, Nelson, New Zealand
| | - Jane Kitson
- Kitson Consulting Ltd, Invercargill, New Zealand
| | - Khyla Russell
- Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki, Karitane, New Zealand
| | - Goro Yoshizaki
- Department of Marine Biosciences, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Yazawa
- Department of Marine Biosciences, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tammy E Steeves
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Maren Wellenreuther
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant & Food Research Limited, Nelson, New Zealand
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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2
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Holt WV. Biobanks, offspring fitness and the influence of developmental plasticity in conservation biology. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230026. [PMID: 37700907 PMCID: PMC10494884 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitigation of the widely known threats to the world's biodiversity is difficult, despite the strategies and actions proposed by international agreements such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Nevertheless, many scientists devote their time and effort to finding and implementing various solutions to the problem. One potential way forward that is gaining popularity involves the establishment of biobank programs aimed at preserving and storing germplasm from threatened species, and then using it to support the future viability and health of threatened populations. This involves developing and using assisted reproductive technologies to achieve their goals. Despite considerable advances in the effectiveness of reproductive technologies, differences between the reproductive behavior and physiology of widely differing taxonomic groups mean that this approach cannot be applied with equal success to many species. Moreover, evidence that epigenetic influences and developmental plasticity, whereby it is now understood that embryonic development, and subsequent health in later life, can be affected by peri-conceptional environmental conditions, is raising the possibility that cryopreservation methods themselves may have to be reviewed and revised when planning the biobanks. Here, I describe the benefits and problems associated with germplasm biobanking across various species, but also offer some realistic assessments of current progress and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Vincent Holt
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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3
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Wharton D. Backcrossing as a species restoration technique. Zoo Biol 2023; 42:490-508. [PMID: 36967628 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
An investigation was conducted on the phenotypic results of mouse hybridization and seven generations of backcrossing, observing reciprocal F1 hybrids and backcrosses of Mus spretus and a laboratory strain of Mus domesticus C57BL/6J. F1 hybrids, backcrosses, and pure control specimens were measured for 6 body characteristics, 4 pelage coloration characteristics, 14 behaviors, and reproduction as reflected in litter size. Backcrossing was pursued for seven generations to FBC7 (i.e., "Backcross 7" or seven generations from commencement of backcrossing from an F1 hybrid female) where species restoration is mathematically calculated to be at 99.7%. Except for a minority of FBC7 M. spretus specimens failing to conform completely to one pelage characteristic, FBC7 specimens were indistinguishable from controls both subjectively and in all areas of measurement. The M. spretus backcross line was followed generation by generation and was largely conforming to controls by FBC4 at latest. The same effect was observed in the reciprocal M. domesticus backcross line. Fertility was negatively affected in F1 hybrids but restored or improved in backcross generations. Discussion is offered on hybridization and backcrossing as it occurs in nature and how it has been used or could be used as an additional ex situ tool in wildlife conservation efforts. It is concluded that conservation-oriented backcrossing is a practical species/subspecies restoration technique and has the potential to make genetic rescue feasible with minimal gene flow at the binomial level. Backcrossing is most applicable in closely monitored ex situ settings (1) where only one sex remains of a given taxon; and (2) where inbreeding depression seriously threatens a remnant taxon's ability to recover, and the only gene flow option is from another distinct species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wharton
- Conservation Science (Emeritus), Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield, Illinois, USA
- City Zoos (retired), Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx, New York, USA
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4
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Anastas ZM, Byrne PG, O'Brien JK, Hobbs RJ, Upton R, Silla AJ. The Increasing Role of Short-Term Sperm Storage and Cryopreservation in Conserving Threatened Amphibian Species. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2094. [PMID: 37443891 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Multidisciplinary approaches to conserve threatened species are required to curb biodiversity loss. Globally, amphibians are facing the most severe declines of any vertebrate class. In response, conservation breeding programs have been established in a growing number of amphibian species as a safeguard against further extinction. One of the main challenges to the long-term success of conservation breeding programs is the maintenance of genetic diversity, which, if lost, poses threats to the viability and adaptive potential of at-risk populations. Integrating reproductive technologies into conservation breeding programs can greatly assist genetic management and facilitate genetic exchange between captive and wild populations, as well as reinvigorate genetic diversity from expired genotypes. The generation of offspring produced via assisted fertilisation using frozen-thawed sperm has been achieved in a small but growing number of amphibian species and is poised to be a valuable tool for the genetic management of many more threatened species globally. This review discusses the role of sperm storage in amphibian conservation, presents the state of current technologies for the short-term cold storage and cryopreservation of amphibian sperm, and discusses the generation of cryo-derived offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zara M Anastas
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Phillip G Byrne
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Justine K O'Brien
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Mosman, NSW 2088, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Hobbs
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Mosman, NSW 2088, Australia
| | - Rose Upton
- Conservation Science Research Group, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Aimee J Silla
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
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5
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Flack N, Drown M, Walls C, Pratte J, McLain A, Faulk C. Chromosome-level, nanopore-only genome and allele-specific DNA methylation of Pallas's cat, Otocolobus manul. NAR Genom Bioinform 2023; 5:lqad033. [PMID: 37025970 PMCID: PMC10071556 DOI: 10.1093/nargab/lqad033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pallas's cat, or the manul cat (Otocolobus manul), is a small felid native to the grasslands and steppes of central Asia. Population strongholds in Mongolia and China face growing challenges from climate change, habitat fragmentation, poaching, and other sources. These threats, combined with O. manul's zoo collection popularity and value in evolutionary biology, necessitate improvement of species genomic resources. We used standalone nanopore sequencing to assemble a 2.5 Gb, 61-contig nuclear assembly and 17097 bp mitogenome for O. manul. The primary nuclear assembly had 56× sequencing coverage, a contig N50 of 118 Mb, and a 94.7% BUSCO completeness score for Carnivora-specific genes. High genome collinearity within Felidae permitted alignment-based scaffolding onto the fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) reference genome. Manul contigs spanned all 19 felid chromosomes with an inferred total gap length of less than 400 kilobases. Modified basecalling and variant phasing produced an alternate pseudohaplotype assembly and allele-specific DNA methylation calls; 61 differentially methylated regions were identified between haplotypes. Nearest features included classical imprinted genes, non-coding RNAs, and putative novel imprinted loci. The assembled mitogenome successfully resolved existing discordance between Felinae nuclear and mtDNA phylogenies. All assembly drafts were generated from 158 Gb of sequence using seven minION flow cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Flack
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Melissa Drown
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Carrie Walls
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Jay Pratte
- Bloomington Parks and Recreation, Miller Park Zoo, Bloomington, IL 61701, USA
| | - Adam McLain
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Utica, NY 13502, USA
| | - Christopher Faulk
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
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Howell LG, Mawson PR, Comizzoli P, Witt RR, Frankham R, Clulow S, O'Brien JK, Clulow J, Marinari P, Rodger JC. Modeling genetic benefits and financial costs of integrating biobanking into the conservation breeding of managed marsupials. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2023; 37:e14010. [PMID: 36178038 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Managed breeding programs are an important tool in marsupial conservation efforts but may be costly and have adverse genetic effects in unavoidably small captive colonies. Biobanking and assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) could help overcome these challenges, but further demonstration of their potential is required to improve uptake. We used genetic and economic models to examine whether supplementing hypothetical captive populations of dibblers (Parantechinus apicalis) and numbats (Myrmecobius fasciatus) with biobanked founder sperm through ARTs could reduce inbreeding, lower required colony sizes, and reduce program costs. We also asked practitioners of the black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes) captive recovery program to complete a questionnaire to examine the resources and model species research pathways required to develop an optimized biobanking protocol in the black-footed ferret. We used data from this questionnaire to devise similar costed research pathways for Australian marsupials. With biobanking and assisted reproduction, inbreeding was reduced on average by between 80% and 98%, colony sizes were on average 99% smaller, and program costs were 69- to 83-fold lower. Integrating biobanking made long-standing captive genetic retention targets possible in marsupials (90% source population heterozygosity for a minimum of 100 years) within realistic cost frameworks. Lessons from the use of biobanking technology that contributed to the recovery of the black-footed ferret include the importance of adequate research funding (US$4.2 million), extensive partnerships that provide access to facilities and equipment, colony animals, appropriate research model species, and professional and technical staff required to address knowledge gaps to deliver an optimized biobanking protocol. Applied research investment of A$133 million across marsupial research pathways could deliver biobanking protocols for 15 of Australia's most at-risk marsupial species and 7 model species. The technical expertise and ex situ facilities exist to emulate the success of the black-footed ferret recovery program in threatened marsupials using these research pathways. All that is needed now for significant and cost-effective conservation gains is greater investment by policy makers in marsupial ARTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan G Howell
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
- FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter R Mawson
- Perth Zoo, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, South Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Ryan R Witt
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard Frankham
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Australian Museum, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Simon Clulow
- Centre for Conservation Ecology and Genomics, Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Justine K O'Brien
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Taronga Conservation Society, Mosman, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John Clulow
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Paul Marinari
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
| | - John C Rodger
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, New South Wales, Australia
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7
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Howell LG, Witt RR. Emerging arguments for reproductive technologies in wildlife and their implications for assisted reproduction and conservation of threatened marsupials. Theriogenology 2023; 198:19-29. [PMID: 36529108 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have significant potential to make a meaningful contribution to the conservation of threatened wildlife. This is true of Australia's iconic, and endangered koala (Phascolarctos cinereus). If developed, ARTs could offer a solution to manage genetic diversity and costs in breeding programs and may provide frozen repositories for either insurance or the practical production of genetically resilient koalas for release and on-ground recovery. Holding back the wider use of ARTs for koalas and other wildlife is a lack of funding to close the remaining knowledge gaps in the marsupial reproductive sciences and develop the reproductive tools needed. This lack of funding is arguably driven by a poor understanding of the potential contribution ARTs could make to threatened species management. We present a review of our cross-disciplinary and accessible strategy to draw much needed public attention and funding for the development of ARTs in wildlife, using emerging cost and genetic modelling arguments and the koala as a case study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan G Howell
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University Geelong, Melbourne Burwood Campus, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia; FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, NSW, 2290, Australia.
| | - Ryan R Witt
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, NSW, 2290, Australia.
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8
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Galla SJ, Mittan-Moreau CS, Barbosa S. Capturing conservation in the post-genomics era: a book review of “Conservation and Genomics of Populations.”. CONSERV GENET 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-022-01481-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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9
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Recovering an endangered frog species through integrative reproductive technologies. Theriogenology 2022; 191:141-152. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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10
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Burger IJ, Lampert SS, Kouba CK, Morin DJ, Kouba AJ. Development of an amphibian sperm biobanking protocol for genetic management and population sustainability. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 10:coac032. [PMID: 35620647 PMCID: PMC9127716 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coac032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Sperm cryopreservation is a vital tool in amphibian assisted reproductive technologies that aids in genetic and population management, specifically for at-risk species. Significant advancements have been made in the cryopreservation of amphibian sperm, yet there is little information on how the cryopreservation process influences fertilization and embryonic development. In this study, we tested several cryoprotective agents (CPAs) and freezing rates on sperm recovery, fertilization potential and embryo development using Fowler's toads (Anaxyrus fowleri) as a model amphibian species for application to at-risk anurans. Three cryoprotectant treatments were tested, which included 10% trehalose + 0.25% bovine serum albumin with (1) 5% N,N-dimethylformamide (DMFA); (2) 10% DMFA; or (3) 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Additionally, sperm in each cryoprotectant was frozen at two different rates, -32 to -45°C/min and -20 to -29°C/min. Post-thaw sperm analysis included motility, morphology, viability, fertilization success and embryo development. Results show that 10% DMFA produced significantly higher (P = 0.005) post-thaw sperm motility than 5% DMFA and was similar to 10% DMSO. Furthermore, sperm frozen at -32 to -45°C/min had significantly higher post-thaw motility (P < 0.001) compared to sperm frozen at -20 to -29°C/min. We also found that embryos fertilized with sperm frozen with 5% DMFA resulted in significantly higher (P = 0.02) cleavage than 10% DMSO, yet there was no other effect of CPA on fertilization or embryo development. Furthermore, embryos fertilized with sperm frozen at -32 to -45°C/min resulted in significantly higher cleavage (P = 0.001), neurulation (P = 0.001) and hatching (P = 0.002) numbers than sperm frozen at a rate of -20 to -29°C/min. Overall, eggs fertilized with frozen-thawed sperm produced 1327 tadpoles. These results provide insight towards a biobanking strategy that can be applied to imperilled species to preserve genetic lineages and bolster offspring genetic diversity for reintroduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella J Burger
- Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA
| | - Shaina S Lampert
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA
| | - Carrie K Kouba
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA
| | - Dana J Morin
- Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA
| | - Andrew J Kouba
- Corresponding author: Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA.
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11
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Howell LG, Johnston SD, O’Brien JK, Frankham R, Rodger JC, Ryan SA, Beranek CT, Clulow J, Hudson DS, Witt RR. Modelling Genetic Benefits and Financial Costs of Integrating Biobanking into the Captive Management of Koalas. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12080990. [PMID: 35454237 PMCID: PMC9028793 DOI: 10.3390/ani12080990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Managed wildlife breeding faces high costs and genetic diversity challenges associated with caring for small populations. Biobanking (freezing of sex cells and tissues for use in assisted breeding) and associated reproductive technologies could help alleviate these issues in koala captive management by enhancing retention of genetic diversity in captive-bred animals and lowering program costs through reductions in the size of the required live captive colonies. Australia’s zoos and wildlife hospitals provide rare opportunities to refine and cost-effectively integrate these tools into conservation outcomes for koalas due to extensive already-existing infrastructure, technical expertise, and captive animals. Abstract Zoo and wildlife hospital networks are set to become a vital component of Australia’s contemporary efforts to conserve the iconic and imperiled koala (Phascolarctos cinereus). Managed breeding programs held across zoo-based networks typically face high economic costs and can be at risk of adverse genetic effects typical of unavoidably small captive colonies. Emerging evidence suggests that biobanking and associated assisted reproductive technologies could address these economic and genetic challenges. We present a modelled scenario, supported by detailed costings, where these technologies are optimized and could be integrated into conservation breeding programs of koalas across the established zoo and wildlife hospital network. Genetic and economic modelling comparing closed captive koala populations suggest that supplementing them with cryopreserved founder sperm using artificial insemination or intracytoplasmic sperm injection could substantially reduce inbreeding, lower the required colony sizes of conservation breeding programs, and greatly reduce program costs. Ambitious genetic retention targets (maintaining 90%, 95% and 99% of source population heterozygosity for 100 years) could be possible within realistic cost frameworks, with output koalas suited for wild release. Integrating biobanking into the zoo and wildlife hospital network presents a cost-effective and financially feasible model for the uptake of these tools due to the technical and research expertise, captive koala colonies, and ex situ facilities that already exist across these networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan G. Howell
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University Geelong, Melbourne Burwood Campus, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
- Correspondence: (L.G.H.); (R.R.W.)
| | - Stephen D. Johnston
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia;
| | - Justine K. O’Brien
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Taronga Conservation Society, Bradleys Head Rd., Mosman, NSW 2088, Australia;
| | - Richard Frankham
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia;
| | - John C. Rodger
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
| | - Shelby A. Ryan
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
| | - Chad T. Beranek
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
| | - John Clulow
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
| | - Donald S. Hudson
- Port Stephens Koala & Wildlife Preservation Society LTD., t/a Port Stephens Koala Hospital, One Mile, NSW 2316, Australia;
| | - Ryan R. Witt
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Biology Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.C.R.); (S.A.R.); (C.T.B.); (J.C.)
- FAUNA Research Alliance, P.O. Box 5092, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
- Correspondence: (L.G.H.); (R.R.W.)
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12
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Clulow S, Clulow J, Marcec-Greaves R, Della Togna G, Calatayud NE. Common goals, different stages: the state of the ARTs for reptile and amphibian conservation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:i-ix. [PMID: 35275052 DOI: 10.1071/rdv34n5_fo] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Amphibians and reptiles are highly threatened vertebrate taxa with large numbers of species threatened with extinction. With so many species at risk, conservation requires the efficient and cost-effective application of all the tools available so that as many species as possible are assisted. Biobanking of genetic material in genetic resource banks (GRBs) in combination with assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) to retrieve live animals from stored materials are two powerful, complementary tools in the conservation toolbox for arresting and reversing biodiversity decline for both amphibians and reptiles. However, the degree of development of the ARTs and cryopreservation technologies differ markedly between these two groups. These differences are explained in part by different perceptions of the taxa, but also to differing reproductive anatomy and biology between the amphibians and reptiles. Artificial fertilisation with cryopreserved sperm is becoming a more widely developed and utilised technology for amphibians. However, in contrast, artificial insemination with production of live progeny has been reported in few reptiles, and while sperm have been successfully cryopreserved, there are still no reports of the production of live offspring generated from cryopreserved sperm. In both amphibians and reptiles, a focus on sperm cryopreservation and artificial fertilisation or artificial insemination has been at the expense of the development and application of more advanced technologies such as cryopreservation of the female germline and embryonic genome, or the use of sophisticated stem cell/primordial germ cell cryopreservation and transplantation approaches. This review accompanies the publication of ten papers on amphibians and twelve papers on reptiles reporting advances in ARTs and biobanking for the herpetological taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Clulow
- Centre for Conservation Ecology & Genomics, Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
| | - John Clulow
- University of Newcastle, Conservation Biology Research Group, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | | | - Gina Della Togna
- Universidad Interamericana de Panama, Direccion de Investigacion, Campus Central, Avenida Ricardo J. Alfaro, Panama City, Panama; and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, Panama
| | - Natalie E Calatayud
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, 15600 San Pasqual valley Road, Escondido, CA 92025, USA; and Conservation Science Network, 24 Thomas Street, Mayfield, NSW 2304, Australia
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Browne RK, Kaurova SA, Vasudevan K, McGinnity D, Venu G, Gonzalez M, Uteshev VK, Marcec-Greaves R. Reproduction technologies for the sustainable management of Caudata (salamander) and Gymnophiona (caecilian) biodiversity. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:479-497. [PMID: 35157827 DOI: 10.1071/rd21356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We review the use of reproduction technologies (RTs) to support the sustainable management of threatened Caudata (salamanders) and Gymnophiona (caecilian) biodiversity in conservation breeding programs (CBPs) or through biobanking alone. The Caudata include ∼760 species with ∼55% threatened, the Gymnophiona include ∼215 species with an undetermined but substantial number threatened, with 80% of Caudata and 65% of Gymnophiona habitat unprotected. Reproduction technologies include: (1) the exogenous hormonal induction of spermatozoa, eggs, or mating, (2) in vitro fertilisation, (3) intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), (4) the refrigerated storage of spermatozoa, (5) the cryopreservation of sperm, cell or tissues, (6) cloning, and (7) gonadal tissue or cell transplantation into living amphibians to eventually produce gametes and then individuals. Exogenous hormone regimens have been applied to 11 Caudata species to stimulate mating and to 14 species to enable the collection of spermatozoa or eggs. In vitro fertilisation has been successful in eight species, spermatozoa have been cryopreserved in seven species, and in two species in vitro fertilisation with cryopreserved spermatozoa has resulted in mature reproductive adults. However, the application of RTs to Caudata needs research and development over a broader range of species. Reproduction technologies are only now being developed for Gymnophiona, with many discoveries and pioneering achievement to be made. Species with the potential for repopulation are the focus of the few currently available amphibian CBPs. As Caudata and Gymnophiona eggs or larvae cannot be cryopreserved, and the capacity of CBPs is limited, the perpetuation of the biodiversity of an increasing number of species depends on the development of RTs to recover female individuals from cryopreserved and biobanked cells or tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert K Browne
- Sustainability America, La Isla Road, Sarteneja, Corozal District, Belize
| | - Svetlana A Kaurova
- Institute of Cell Biophysics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, PSCBR RAS, Pushchino, Moscow Region 142290, Russia
| | - Karthikeyan Vasudevan
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, Telangana 500048, India
| | - Dale McGinnity
- Ectotherm Department, Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, Nashville, TN 37211, USA
| | - Govindappa Venu
- Department of Zoology, Centre for Applied Genetics, Bangalore University, Jnana Bharathi Campus, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560056, India
| | - Manuel Gonzalez
- Departamento de Produccion Animal, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Victor K Uteshev
- Institute of Cell Biophysics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, PSCBR RAS, Pushchino, Moscow Region 142290, Russia
| | - Ruth Marcec-Greaves
- National Amphibian Conservation Center Detroit Zoological Society, Detroit, MI, USA. Honduras Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Center, Oak Grove Missouri 64075
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New developments in the field of genomic technologies and their relevance to conservation management. CONSERV GENET 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-021-01415-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractRecent technological advances in the field of genomics offer conservation managers and practitioners new tools to explore for conservation applications. Many of these tools are well developed and used by other life science fields, while others are still in development. Considering these technological possibilities, choosing the right tool(s) from the toolbox is crucial and can pose a challenging task. With this in mind, we strive to inspire, inform and illuminate managers and practitioners on how conservation efforts can benefit from the current genomic and biotechnological revolution. With inspirational case studies we show how new technologies can help resolve some of the main conservation challenges, while also informing how implementable the different technologies are. We here focus specifically on small population management, highlight the potential for genetic rescue, and discuss the opportunities in the field of gene editing to help with adaptation to changing environments. In addition, we delineate potential applications of gene drives for controlling invasive species. We illuminate that the genomic toolbox offers added benefit to conservation efforts, but also comes with limitations for the use of these novel emerging techniques.
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Campbell L, Clulow J, Doody JS, Clulow S. Optimal cooling rates for sperm cryopreservation in a threatened lizard conform to two-factor hypothesis of cryo-injury. Cryobiology 2021; 103:101-106. [PMID: 34499890 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies provide important tools for wildlife conservation but have rarely been developed for reptiles. A critical step in developing cryopreservation protocols is establishing optimal cooling rates for cell survival. The two-factor hypothesis explaining cryoinjury to cells originates from an inverted 'U' shape of recovery curves generated in many cell types thawed after cryopreservation, due to cell recovery declining at cooling rates either side of a single optimum. We generated such a curve for the yellow-spotted monitor lizard Varanus panoptes, the first for any reptile. We cryopreserved sperm using two cooling devices (LN2 dry shipper; LN2 bath vapour) and two sperm-holding vessels (Cassou sperm straws; Nunc CryoTubes) to generate four different cooling-rate curves during freezing. Sperm motility and viability (47.3% and 76.5% respectively) were highest when frozen in straws suspended in a LN2 bath at an intermediate cooling rate of 73 °C/min between 0 and -50 °C, whereas sperm frozen in straws suspended in a dry shipper at the fastest cooling rate (231 °C/min between 0 and -50 °C) produced the lowest recovery (10.4% and 36.4% motility and viability, respectively). Sperm frozen in cryotubes at the lowest cooling rates in either LN2 bath vapour or dry shipper produced intermediate recovery. The shape of the optimal cooling curve conformed to the two-factor hypothesis of cryoinjury, the first such evidence in reptile sperm. This in turn led to the identification of simple cryopreservation setups (LN2 vapour with straws and cryotubes; dry shipper with cryotubes but not straws) suitable for cryopreserving lizard sperm in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan Campbell
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, 2308, Australia
| | - John Clulow
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, 2308, Australia
| | - J Sean Doody
- Department of Integrative Biology Sciences, University of South Florida, St. Petersburg Campus, St. Petersburg, Florida, 33701, USA
| | - Simon Clulow
- Centre for Conservation Ecology and Genomics, Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, 2617, Australia; Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, 2109, Australia.
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Howell LG, Mawson PR, Frankham R, Rodger JC, Upton RMO, Witt RR, Calatayud NE, Clulow S, Clulow J. Integrating biobanking could produce significant cost benefits and minimise inbreeding for Australian amphibian captive breeding programs. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:573-587. [PMID: 38600658 DOI: 10.1071/rd21058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Captive breeding is an important tool for amphibian conservation despite high economic costs and deleterious genetic effects of sustained captivity and unavoidably small colony sizes. Integration of biobanking and assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) could provide solutions to these challenges, but is rarely used due to lack of recognition of the potential benefits and clear policy direction. Here we present compelling genetic and economic arguments to integrate biobanking and ARTs into captive breeding programs using modelled captive populations of two Australian threatened frogs, namely the orange-bellied frog Geocrinia vitellina and the white bellied frog Geocrinia alba . Back-crossing with frozen founder spermatozoa using ARTs every generation minimises rates of inbreeding and provides considerable reductions in colony size and program costs compared with conventional captive management. Biobanking could allow captive institutions to meet or exceed longstanding genetic retention targets (90% of source population heterozygosity over 100 years). We provide a broad policy direction that could make biobanking technology a practical reality across Australia's ex situ management of amphibians in current and future holdings. Incorporating biobanking technology widely across this network could deliver outcomes by maintaining high levels of source population genetic diversity and freeing economic resources to develop ex situ programs for a greater number of threatened amphibian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan G Howell
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; and FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia; and Corresponding author
| | - Peter R Mawson
- Perth Zoo, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, PO Box 489, South Perth, WA 6951, Australia
| | - Richard Frankham
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2019, Australia; and Australian Museum, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - John C Rodger
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; and FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
| | - Rose M O Upton
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; and FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
| | - Ryan R Witt
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; and FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
| | - Natalie E Calatayud
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027, USA; and Conservation Science Network, 24 Thomas Street, Mayfield, NSW 2304, Australia
| | - Simon Clulow
- Centre for Conservation Ecology and Genomics, Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
| | - John Clulow
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; and FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, NSW 2290, Australia
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