Integrating In-Situ and Ex-Situ Data Management Processes for Biodiversity Conservation
Date
2017
Authors
Schwartz, Karin R.
Parsons, E. Christien Michael
Rockwood, Larry
Wood, Thomas C.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution
Abstract
There is an increasing need for a “one plan approach” for conservation strategies that integrate in-situ and ex-situ management processes. Zoological institutions contribute directly to threatened species conservation through paradigms, such as reintroduction, head-starting, supplementation, or rescue/rehabilitation/release. This in-situ/ex-situ integration necessitates collaboration at all levels of conservation action including planning, implementation, monitoring and assessment to drive adaptive management processes. Each component is dependent on the availability and accuracy of data for evidence to facilitate evaluation and adaptive management processes. The Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), managed by Species360, is a centralized web-based information system used in zoological institutions worldwide to pool life history, behavior and health data and facilitate animal husbandry, health, and breeding management processes. Currently used for few integrated conservation programs, ZIMS is an innovative tool that offers a new opportunity to link data management processes for animals that spend a part of their lives under human care and part in their natural environment and has great potential for use in managed wild populations.
Description
Keywords
Conservation translocation, In-situ and ex-situ conservation, Species360