Edexcel A Level (IAL) Biology -4.21 Roles of Seed Banks & Zoos in Conservation- Study Notes- New Syllabus
Edexcel A Level (IAL) Biology -4.21 Roles of Seed Banks & Zoos in Conservation- Study Notes- New syllabus
Edexcel A Level (IAL) Biology -4.21 Roles of Seed Banks & Zoos in Conservation- Study Notes -Edexcel A level Biology – per latest Syllabus.
Key Concepts:
- 4.21 be able to evaluate the methods used by zoos and seed banks in the conservation of endangered species and their genetic diversity, including scientific research, captive breeding programmes, reintroduction programmes and education
Conservation of Endangered Species – Zoos & Seed Banks
🌱 Introduction
Human activity and habitat loss are driving many species toward extinction. Conservation programmes aim to protect species and maintain genetic diversity using in situ (natural habitats) and ex situ (outside natural habitats) strategies. Zoos and seed banks are key ex situ conservation tools.
🧬 Role of Zoos in Conservation
| Method | Description | Purpose / Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Research | Study animal behaviour, reproduction, genetics, diet | Informs breeding and reintroduction programmes |
| Captive Breeding Programmes | Breeding endangered animals in controlled conditions | Increases population numbers and preserves genetic diversity |
| Reintroduction Programmes | Releasing bred animals back into natural habitats | Helps restore wild populations |
| Education & Awareness | Visitor programmes, school outreach, campaigns | Increases public understanding and support for conservation |
Key Points:
- Zoos maintain genetic records to avoid inbreeding.
- Captive breeding requires time and habitat protection for successful reintroduction.
🌱 Role of Seed Banks in Conservation
| Method | Description | Purpose / Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Seed Storage | Collecting and storing seeds at low temperatures | Preserves genetic diversity of plants for future use |
| Scientific Research | Studying germination, dormancy, and genetics | Ensures long-term viability and informs restoration projects |
| Reintroduction | Planting seeds in natural habitats | Restores endangered plant populations |
| Education & Awareness | Public information campaigns, school programmes | Promotes sustainable plant conservation |
Key Points:
- Seeds remain viable for decades if stored properly.
- Seed banks act as a genetic backup against habitat loss or natural disasters.
🧩 Evaluation of Methods
| Method | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Research | Guides effective conservation strategies | Requires funding, skilled staff |
| Captive Breeding | Protects small populations, prevents extinction | Can reduce natural behaviours, may not adapt to wild easily |
| Reintroduction | Restores species to natural habitat | Needs suitable, safe habitats; survival not guaranteed |
| Education & Awareness | Encourages public support, funding, and policy change | Impact depends on engagement level |
| Seed Banks | Preserve genetic diversity long-term, low space & cost | Only preserves plants; no habitat protection; not suitable for all species |
🌍 Overall Importance
- Maintains biodiversity and ecosystem stability.
- Preserves rare alleles and prevents inbreeding depression.
- Supports restoration projects and long-term species survival.
Key Idea: Zoos and seed banks complement in situ conservation, ensuring species survive even when natural habitats are under threat.
⚡ Quick Recap
Zoos → focus on animals: captive breeding, research, reintroduction, education.
Seed Banks → focus on plants: storage, research, reintroduction, education.
Both aim to maintain genetic diversity and prevent extinction.
Strengths vs limitations must be considered when evaluating conservation strategies.