IF TECHNOLOGY lives up to its promise, zoos interested in keeping genetically viable populations need not worry about space and maintenance: they could opt for frozen genetic matter. Earlier this year, a meeting was held to discuss the science, logistics and implications of setting up Europe's first frozen zoo (New Scientist, January 29, 1994).

European scientists have been working on techniques to store frozen sperm, eggs and even embryos of animals. This way, it would be much easier to preserve genes that might otherwise be lost in small captive groups of animals. Frozen semen has been used in artificial cattle insemination for over a decade. But the technique has to be refined before it can be used for endangered species.

Techniques to freeze eggs are not well developed. Although the signs are promising, sceptics insist that frozen zoos will only hand people an excuse to damage the environment.