Preserving Biodiversity for the Future
Your Toronto Zoo's Cryobank is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the cryogenic preservation of genetic material from threatened species. At temperatures below –190 °C, this repository stores living cells, including sperm, eggs, embryos, and somatic cells, that will remain viable indefinitely, serving as a genetic reservoir to support species conservation efforts.
Why It Matters
As our climate changes, natural habitats diminish and species face increasing threats, the Cryobank acts as an insurance policy against extinction. By safeguarding genetic diversity, the Cryobank enables future reproduction using techniques such as artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization. This proactive approach ensures that even if wild populations decline, the genetic blueprint of species is preserved for potential reintroduction and recovery.
Goal: To preserve the genetic resources of Canada’s ecological and cultural keystone species and help deliver on Canada’s 2030 Nature Strategy.
Areas of Focus
3 I’s of Cryobanking
- cryopreservation of living cells (sperm, eggs. embryos and cell cultures) across the animal kingdom
- utilization of biobanked samples for assisted reproduction
- collaboration with Indigenous communities on conservation action and education
- research with academic, government and non-government partners
- knowledge translation and dissemination
Success Stories
The Cryobank has contributed to several conservation milestones:
- Wood Bison Calves: Since 2009, all wood bison calves born at the Toronto Zoo have been the product of assisted reproductive technologies. In 2015, a wood bison calf was born using sperm that had been cryopreserved for 35 years, demonstrating the long-term viability of stored genetic material. Toronto Zoo | Press Releases. In 2022, a female calf was born following artificial insemination using sex-sorted sperm. Toronto Zoo | Press Releases
- Corpse Flower Preservation: The Reproductive Sciences team developed protocols for collecting and preserving pollen from the rare Amorphophallus titanum, aiding in the conservation of this unique plant species.
Looking Ahead
The Toronto Zoo aims to expand the Cryobank, collaborating with government and Indigenous conservation organizations, to enhance cryobanking efforts nationwide. This initiative aligns with global biodiversity goals and reinforces the Zoo's commitment to protecting wildlife for future generations.
Learn More
For more information on the Cryobank and our conservation programs:
