Bio-banking: An Emerging Approach for Conservation of Fish Germplasm

Abstract

Global biodiversity is declining with substantial losses of populations , species and habitats causing a significant impact on human life . Holistic and integrated approach for biodiversity conservation requires concrete and urgent action . Although there is increasing concern over the loss of species and degradation of habitat , still more innovative efforts are required . Biobanking holds immense promise to provide biomaterial for conservation of fish germplasm . Establishment of repositories along with gene banks could provide opportunities for collaboration among the leading experts in the fields of fish ecology , physiology , and cryobiology to synthesize effective ways for conservation of fish genetic resources , and discuss what needs to be done to increase the impact in the next century . The article reviews different causes for loss of fish biodiversity , the ways to overcome the situation and advocates cell line repository as an alternative aid to conserve fish germplasm .