A Species Survival Plan (SSP) is a program implemented by zoos and aquariums to help ensure the long-term survival of certain species. These programs are typically run by the individuals who work at facilities within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and are designed to manage the breeding and care of species in captivity.
The goal of an SSP is to maintain a genetically diverse and self-sustaining population of a particular species in captivity. This is done by carefully managing the breeding of individuals within the captive population and by working to conserve the species in the wild. To achieve this, SSPs use a variety of tools, such as genetic testing, demographic analysis and population modeling.
One of the key components of an SSP is the management of the breeding of individuals within the captive population. This is done by creating a studbook, which is a record of all individuals of a particular species in captivity, along with information about their genetic makeup and breeding history. The studbook is used to make breeding recommendations for individual animals to maximize genetic diversity and reduce the risk of inbreeding. At Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, we have staff members who manage nationwide SSPs for several species. These include boat-billed herons, yellow-billed storks, Grand Cayman blue iguanas, Jamaican iguanas, Visayan warty pigs and African elephants.
In addition to managing the breeding of individuals in captivity, the programs also work to conserve species in the wild. This often includes supporting conservation efforts through financial or technical assistance, as well as participating in research and monitoring programs. Some also work towards reintroducing captive-bred individuals back into the wild when there is suitable habitat and protection for those animals. The Zoo has released thousands of Puerto Rican Crested Toad tadpoles in their native habit of Puerto Rico over the last decade!
The careful management of populations in both captivity and the wild through SSP’s and similar programs is one of the many ongoing efforts to preserve our threatened biodiversity. When you visit or donate to the Zoo, you are helping animals locally and abroad.