The Exotic Genome Repository was founded in 2014 to create a centralized
scientific resource for the captive exotic community. EGR is a multi-institutional
distributed bank that receives and curates tissue and genetic samples
in combination with health data for animals present in captivity within
the United States, as well as information from subsequent scientific
endeavors. This is a collaborative effort bringing together scientists
from multiple academic institutions, conservationists, veterinarians,
and animal husbandry specialists in an effort to direct scientific resources
towards preserving these vulnerable species for future generations.
EGR utilizes redundantly distributed storage to ensure tissues and
genetic materials are preserved in multiple locations to minimize the
likelihood of loss. To facilitate use, a confidential and secure, web-accessible
database contains individual information, pedigree data, genomic information,
and health records. Though the initial focus of EGR is on wild felids
in captivity, the infrastructure and interface can be utilized for non-mammalian
species in the future. Easy-to-use forms enable animals to be logged
into the system when samples are submitted to one of the key laboratories,
so that medical and pedigree information can be easily accessed and
compared across the captive populations in the US. Additional modules
for nutrition, veterinary scheduling, and reproductive assessments are
also under development.
Captive conservation and management programs play an increasingly vital
role in a world where habitat destruction and human encroachment continues
to threaten many populations of endangered wild felids. International
in-country species conservation efforts focus on preserving habitat
and diversity in the wild in partnership with local communities.