Type: Review

Ensuring species’ survival and longevity: The role of modern zoos

Authors

  • Admire Chanyandura Al Ain Zoo PO BOX 1204, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0778-1543
    Competing Interests

    There is no conflict of interest to declare.

  • Amna Mana Alotaiba Al Ain Zoo PO BOX 1204, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
    Competing Interests

    No competing interests

  • Hessa Ahmed Alqahtani Al Ain Zoo PO BOX 1204, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
    Competing Interests

    No competing interests

  • Mouza Mubarak Alhajeri Al Ain Zoo PO BOX 1204, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
    Competing Interests

    No competing interest

Corresponding Author

Admire Chanyandura

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64636/ar.34

Abstract

Global animal biodiversity is increasingly threatened, underscoring the critical role of modern zoos as institutions for ex-situ conservation. Zoos provide insurance populations for endangered species, supporting biodiversity through improved management, veterinary care, and habitat enrichment. This review synthesizes 213 peer-reviewed articles, reports, and case studies to evaluate developments in zoo practices that enhance animal welfare and longevity. Evidence shows that animals in managed care often live longer than their wild counterparts, with extended lifespans enabling increased reproductive opportunities, maintaining genetic diversity, and supporting sustainable breeding programs. Advances in assisted reproductive technologies, studbook management, and specialized geriatric care further contribute to population viability. Environmental enrichment and careful management of social structures improve both psychological and physical health, while veterinary interventions mitigate disease, stress, and age-related disorders. Despite these achievements, challenges remain, including replicating natural habitats, minimizing stress, and sustaining behavioral and genetic diversity. Collaborative international efforts and ongoing research are crucial for refining husbandry practices and maximizing conservation outcomes. By integrating scientific study, veterinary expertise, and enrichment programs, modern zoos have become centers of conservation excellence. Promoting longevity in captive populations not only enhances animal welfare but also strengthens global biodiversity strategies, reaffirming zoos’ pivotal role in the long-term survival of endangered species.

Keywords:

ex-situ , endangered species, viability, longevity, biodiversity, wildlife reintroduction, managed care
Ensuring species’ survival and longevity The role of modern zoos

Author Biographies

  • Admire Chanyandura, Al Ain Zoo PO BOX 1204, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

    Admire Chanyandura is the Unit Head of Conservation Research Development at Al Ain Zoo in the United Arab Emirates. He holds an MPhil in Conservation Science, an MSc in Climate Change and Sustainable Development, a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education, and a BSc (Hons) in Wildlife and Safari Management. His academic background is further supported by professional training in Project Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Grant Writing, Monitoring & Evaluation, and GIS.

    In his current role at Al Ain Zoo, Admire leads the zoo’s conservation research efforts, capacity-building initiatives, and strategic collaborations. His work bridges science, policy, and practice, with a focus on inclusive and adaptive conservation strategies. Before joining Al Ain Zoo, he was a Senior Program Support Officer at Bridge Carbon. He was also a lecturer at Chinhoyi University of Technology, where he taught modules in Biodiversity conservation, Ecology, Climate Change, and Wildlife Management. He also contributed to field-based conservation and community development projects in partnership with WWF Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, the CAMPFIRE Association, and C-Quest Capital, gaining valuable experience in ecological assessments and sustainable land-use planning.

    Admire has authored over 18 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters, with work featured in outlets such as Springer, Elsevier, Ecology and Evolution, and Scientific African. His ongoing doctoral research explores the concept of disruptive conservation in crisis contexts, aiming to develop sustainable models that enhance both ecological integrity and socio-economic resilience. 

  • Amna Mana Alotaiba, Al Ain Zoo PO BOX 1204, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

    Dr. Amna Al Otaiba is an accomplished environmental and life sciences leader with over two decades of experience in environment, health, safety, sustainability, conservation, and academia. She has held senior leadership roles at Al Ain Zoo, overseeing life sciences, animal welfare, and environmental health and safety programs. With a PhD in Molecular Medicine and multiple international certifications, she has contributed to scientific research, published extensively, and achieved global accreditations and sustainability awards.

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Copyright (c) 2025 Admire Chanyandura, Amna Mana Alotaiba, Hessa Ahmed Alqahtani, Mouza Mubarak Alhajeri

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Chanyandura, Admire, Amna Mana Alotaiba, Hessa Ahmed Alqahtani, and Mouza Mubarak Alhajeri. 2025. “Ensuring species’ Survival and Longevity: The Role of Modern Zoos”. Animal Reports 1 (2): 145-68. https://doi.org/10.64636/ar.34.

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