If a genetically valuable animal of an endangered species dies, we may preserve its gametes.
The following document demonstrates how the ovaries or testicles of deceased animals are prepared for shipment, allowing for future harvesting of oocytes and spermatozoa.
Semen samples of valuable animals may be shipped refrigerated to a female recipient for artificial insemination, or prepared for cryopreservation (deep freezing). Semen is therefore diluted in special media (semen extender). The protocols and formulas for these media have to be developed according to the species needs.