Advancements in assisted reproductive technologies for the conservation of endangered mammalian species - A review

The protection of endangered mammal species has emerged as an urgent issue because of habitat destruction, climate change, and threats caused by human activities. Advanced assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) offer innovative solutions to counter declining population trends. Methods like in vitro fertilization, embryo transfer, artificial insemination, and gamete cryopreservation have demonstrated their potential in overcoming reproductive challenges in these species. Additionally, emerging approaches like cloning and stem cell technology provide avenues for preserving genetic diversity and even reviving species that are facing extinction. These technologies enable the rescue of genetic material from deceased or infertile individuals, facilitate cross-institutional breeding programs, and minimize the risks of inbreeding in small populations. However, their application faces ethical, logistical, and species-specific challenges, requiring interdisciplinary collaboration among conservationists, veterinarians, and reproductive biologists. Despite these challenges, ARTs represent a promising tool in the global effort to safeguard biodiversity and restore balance to fragile ecosystems. This abstract underscores the importance of integrating scientific advancements with conservation strategies to secure the future of endangered mammalian species.