Assessment of Genome Damage in Bird and Mammal Species as a Tool for Improvements in ex-situ Conservation at Zoos

Ex-situ conservation at zoos requires strategies regarding improvements to enclosures, as ex-situ conserved specimens constitute an effective reservoir for genetic and biological restoration. The present study focuses on the management of enclosures at zoos and offering an accurate, fast and inexpensive procedure for ex-situ conservation through the assessment of the degree of genome damage (micronuclei) in different bird and mammal species. Analyses of variance revealed statistically significant differences in both bird and mammal species, in comparison to their reference groups. All bird species and Tapirus terrestris had high proportional micronucleus indexes, indicating high susceptibility to genome damage through contact with polluted water from the river used to supply the enclosures. Recognizing the relationship between water quality (evaluated at entry and exit of water in the zoo) and habitat deterioration as well as individual responses to these factors in terms of genotoxicity make efforts directed at ex-situ conservation an urgent priority.