India’s First Frozen Zoo: A New Era in Species Conservation

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling has established India's first frozen zoo, a significant step in wildlife conservation. This facility serves as a genetic cryobank, preserving the genetic material of endangered species to prevent their extinction.

What is a Frozen Zoo?

A frozen zoo is a facility that stores DNA, sperm, eggs, and embryos of endangered animals at ultra-low temperatures. This helps conserve their genetic material for future breeding and research.

• Collaboration – Established in partnership with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad.

• Area Coverage – Spans 67.8 acres.

• Altitude – Located at 2,150 metres (7,050 ft), making it India’s highest-altitude zoological park.

Preservation Process

The frozen zoo follows a structured preservation process:

• Genetic Sampling – Requires storage at -20°C.

• Bio-banking – Uses cryogenic conservation to preserve the DNA of endangered Himalayan species.

• Long-term Storage – Genetic material is kept in liquid nitrogen tanks at -196°C.

Objective and Conservation Efforts

The primary goal of the frozen zoo is to prevent the extinction of species like red pandas, snow leopards, gorals, and Mishmi takins by preserving their genetic material.

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is already known for its conservation breeding programs for red pandas, snow leopards, and Tibetan wolves. It also works on species like the Markhor (screw-horned goat), Mishmi takin, and Himalayan black bear.

Quick Facts

• Global Presence – There are fewer than a dozen frozen zoos worldwide.

• First Frozen Zoo – Established in 1975 by Kurt Benirschke at the Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego.

This initiative marks a crucial step in India’s wildlife conservation efforts, ensuring that endangered species continue to exist for future generations.