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Witness History: The frozen zoo

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24/01/2020 GMT

The frozen zoo

BBC World Service - Witness History, The frozen zoo

Since 1975, San Diego Zoo has been deep-freezing cell samples from rare species

Since 1975, San Diego Zoo has been deep-freezing cell samples from rare species. Scientists are now using the collection to try to save species like the northern white rhinoceros.

In 1975, San Diego Zoo began placing tissue samples of rare animals in cryogenic storage for the benefit of future generations. Called the Frozen Zoo, the refrigeration system now contains the cells of more than 1000 species ranging from the white rhinoceros to the black-footed ferret. Scientists are now using the collection to try to save species threatened by extinction. Simon Watts talks to Dr Oliver Ryder, who has worked at the Frozen Zoo from the very beginning.

PHOTO: Northern White Rhino cells in the Frozen Zoo (San Diego Zoo Institute For Conservation Research)

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