UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY

Biotechnology has become an indispensable component of modern zoological research and wildlife conservation, offering advanced molecular and reproductive tools that enhance our ability to understand, monitor, and protect biodiversity. This review highlights the diverse applications of biotechnology in conservation biology, ranging from DNA barcoding for species identification to next-generation sequencing, population genomics, and transcriptomic analyses that reveal genetic diversity, evolutionary relationships, and adaptive potential. Reproductive technologies such as artificial insemination, in vitro fertilisation, embryo transfer, and cloning have contributed significantly to the recovery and management of endangered species. Molecular diagnostics, biosensors, and recombinant vaccines are now integral to wildlife health monitoring and disease control. The use of environmental DNA (eDNA), metagenomics, and bioindicators has revolutionised ecosystem surveillance, while cryopreservation and biobanking ensure the long-term safeguarding of genetic material for future conservation use. Despite these advances, challenges remain, including technical limitations, high costs, a lack of genomic data for non-model species, and field application constraints. Moreover, ethical concerns and insufficient interdisciplinary collaboration can hinder progress. Emerging technologies such as synthetic biology, AI-driven genomics, and portable sequencing tools are expected to overcome many of these limitations, making conservation more data-driven, predictive, and globally coordinated. The integration of biotechnology with ecological and policy frameworks, alongside investments in education and capacity building, will be critical for long-term success. As biodiversity faces unprecedented threats from habitat loss, climate change, and emerging diseases, biotechnology provides scalable, science-based solutions that can support adaptive management and species recovery. This review underscores the importance of a responsible, collaborative, and forward-thinking approach to applying biotechnology in wildlife conservation and zoological science.