Singapore Achieves 38 Pangolin Samples for Genetic Biobank
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📰 The quick summary: Scientists in Singapore are freezing pangolin sperm to preserve genetic diversity and provide a safety net for the world’s most trafficked mammal.
📈 One key stat: The Sunda pangolin population has dropped by over 50% in just 15 years, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.
💬 One key quote: “We are really worried we are getting too many ‘too little, too late’ scenarios” says Dr. Sonja Luz, CEO of Mandai Nature.
1️⃣ The big picture: Scientists at Singapore’s Mandai Wildlife Group have launched a pioneering initiative to protect pangolins from extinction by creating a genetic biobank. The team collects and freezes sperm samples from male pangolins that can be used for future artificial insemination if needed. This effort aims to preserve genetic diversity for all eight pangolin species, which face severe threats from poaching and habitat loss. The lab has successfully stored samples from 38 pangolins so far, working toward a goal of preserving genetic material from at least 100 founders to ensure sufficient diversity.
2️⃣ Why is this good news: Creating a genetic backup provides a crucial safety net for pangolin species facing extinction risks. The biobank preserves valuable genetic diversity that can help maintain healthy populations in the future. Scientists have also developed innovative techniques for collecting and preserving the genetic material, including creating sperm cells from tissue samples of deceased pangolins. This work contributes to global pangolin conservation efforts, with similar initiatives now happening in Malaysia and China.
3️⃣ What’s next: The Mandai team aims to collect samples from at least 100 pangolin founders to ensure sufficient genetic diversity. They plan to continue refining their techniques while working with international partners on a holistic population safety net. Though natural breeding remains the priority, mastering artificial reproduction techniques now prepares them for worst-case scenarios where traditional breeding becomes impossible.
Read the full story here: Mongabay – Singapore biobank offers backup plan for pangolins
