Advances and Challenges in Understanding and Assisting Reproduction of Wild Animal Species

Abstract

Studying reproduction in wild animals is complex as there are as many biological traits as there are species. What we currently know is minimal compared to the large number of species that remain unstudied. In addition to the impressive diversity of natural mechanisms, other complexities limit the progress of wildlife reproductive science little interest in animal reproduction, difficult access to animals, lack of expertise, hard working conditions, and insufficient funding. Despite those challenges, some species are being saved from extinction with the help of a precise understanding of reproduction, development of assisted reproductive technologies, and creations of cryo-banks. Those advances originate from huge progresses in non-invasive measurements of steroid metabolites in urine or fecal samples to study and monitor reproductive functions and pregnancies. Progresses in cryobiology also have been impactful in animal conservation. Importantly, emerging technologies (transcriptomics, microfluidics) and additional research areas (reproductive aging, microbiomes) could lead to more successes and address current challenges in the reproduction of rare and endangered species. However, while some emerging approaches like stem cell technologies may sound promising, it is necessary to design holistic strategies considering all available tools to optimize investments, time, and efforts in conservation.