When in situ (wild management) programs are insufficient to safeguard against a species becoming extinct, one of the last-ditch efforts humans may try is to create assurance colonies and repatriation programs. This is done by establishing carefully managed captive populations with the goal of preserving genetic diversity and, where conditions allow, eventually returning animals or their descendants to suitable habitat. Conservation workers have used such approaches for a range of species threatened by disease, habitat loss, commercial collection, and other pressures. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) currently coordinates nearly 300 Species Survival Plan programs through its Taxon Advisory Groups. These programs cooperatively manage zoo and aquarium populations to support genetically and demographically healthy populations and broader conservation goals.
This lesson is part of Certified Herpetological Guide. Enrollment is self-paced, with no deadline to finish (about 50 hours).
