CONSERVATION & RESEARCH
Biodiversity Biobank
Preserving the genetic blueprint of at-risk reptiles and amphibians — a frozen safety net for species racing against extinction.
Genetic Management
Stored samples help maintain robust gene pools through assisted reproductive technologies.
Species Recovery
Directly supporting breeding programs for vulnerable and at-risk reptiles and other wildlife.
Scientific Research
A foundation for future breakthroughs in herpetology and conservation genetics.
WHAT IS A BIOBANK?
A Frozen Safety Net for Wildlife
A biodiversity biobank is a secure, long-term repository for biological samples such as tissue, blood and genetic material. By cryogenically preserving these specimens, researchers can learn more about species biology and population health, and help maintain genetic diversity for years to come.
In November 2025, Reptilia joined the CAZA Biodiversity Biobank, launched with the Canadian Museum of Nature. Alongside other CAZA-accredited institutions, we’re expanding the capacity to collect and store living tissue samples, such as spermatozoa, oocytes and embryos.
135+
Biological samples banked nationally at launch
46
Species represented, including 10 native to Canada
2018
Year the National Biodiversity Cryobank of Canada opened at the Canadian Museum of Nature
HOW IT WORKS
From Sample to Safety Net
Reptiles and amphibians face an unprecedented global extinction crisis, from the spread of chytrid fungus in amphibians to the loss of critical nesting habitat for reptiles. Many are disappearing faster than they can be studied, so Reptilia processes and preserves DNA, tissue and cell samples from at-risk lineages using a multi-tiered approach.
01 · Ultra-Low Freezers
Specialized −20°C and −80°C freezers keep samples genomically stable for short-term storage and research.
02 · Cryopreservation
Liquid nitrogen tanks hold samples in a state of biological stasis, preserving them indefinitely.
03 · A Frozen Zoo
Together, these samples form a genetic backup for wild populations, so a species’ diversity remains available for future recovery even if it struggles in the wild.
Why It Matters
For many species, biobanking is no longer just a research tool — it’s an essential safety net. Samples preserved today lay the foundation for the assisted reproduction and genomic research that vulnerable species will depend on.
SPECIES IN FOCUS
Species We’ve Banked
Since joining the CAZA Biodiversity Biobank in November 2025, Reptilia has contributed genetic samples from these species to Canada’s national collection.
Veiled Chameleon
Native to the mountains and coastal valleys of Yemen and Saudi Arabia, the veiled chameleon is known for the tall casque on its head, independently moving eyes and a projectile tongue that can be longer than its body.
Panther Chameleon
Found in Madagascar, panther chameleons are among the most colourful reptiles on Earth. A male’s colours vary by the region it comes from, making genetic records especially valuable.
Yellow Anaconda
A powerful, non-venomous constrictor from the wetlands of South America, including the Pantanal. Smaller than its green cousin, it spends much of its life in water and gives birth to live young.
Boa Constrictor
Ranging from Mexico through Central and South America, the boa constrictor subdues prey by constriction rather than venom and gives birth to live young. It’s one of the most recognizable snakes in the world.
NEXT IN LINE
Other Applicable Species
More Reptilia residents identified as applicable for future biobanking.
Arapaima
One of the largest freshwater fish in the world, native to the Amazon River Basin. Arapaima breathe air, surfacing every 5 to 15 minutes, and can grow up to 3 metres (nearly 10 feet) long.
Malaysian Box Turtle
A semi-aquatic turtle from the wetlands, marshes, rice fields and slow streams of Southeast Asia. Its hinged plastron lets it close its shell completely for protection.
Fly River Turtle
Also called the pig-nosed turtle, this freshwater species from northern Australia and New Guinea is the last surviving member of its family, Carettochelyidae — a true evolutionary relic.
Chinese Softshell Turtle
Pelodiscus sinensis trades a heavy, armoured shell for a leathery one built for speed and camouflage on muddy river bottoms.
GET INVOLVED
How You Can Help
Visit Us
Every admission supports animal care and conservation at all three of our zoos.
Donate
Support the Reptilia Education & Conservation Foundation and help fund our programs.
Volunteer
Join our team and get hands-on experience caring for reptiles and amphibians.
Follow the Zoo
Camp adventures, special events, rescue stories and behind-the-scenes moments from Vaughan, Whitby and London. Find us @reptiliazoo.