Manuscript Title: Reproductive biotechnologies in zoo population management

Mastromonaco, Gabriela FFerraz, Marcia de Almeida Monteiro Melo

Global biodiversity continues to decline at an alarming rate, with increasing numbers of species at risk of extinction due to climate change, habitat loss and other human activities. In response, conservation efforts are shifting toward integrated population management strategies that bridge in situ and ex situ environments. Historically, zoos focused on managing small, closed populations, which proved insufficient for maintaining long-term genetic viability. Today, there is growing recognition of the need to incorporate genetic diversity from wild populations, utilize biobanking to preserve genetic resources, and apply assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) to enhance species recovery. This review examines the evolution of zoo-based population management, emphasizing the importance of genetic tools and cooperative breeding strategies. We explore the development and application of ARTs­artificial insemination, in vitro embryo production, embryo transfer, cloning, and stem cell technologies­and highlight both their conservation potential and barriers to broader implementation, including biological, logistical, and regulatory constraints. By compiling current knowledge, challenges, and examples across taxa, this review provides a practical and conceptual foundation for advancing the use of ARTs and biobanking in species conservation.(AU)

1. genetic management
2. in situ­ex situ integration
3. zoo conservation
4. Biobanking