This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. There are various schools of thought surrounding zoos and their purpose. Skeptics argue that it’s unethical to remove wild animals from their natural habitat to be put on display, but proponents of zoos stress that they serve a critical scientific purpose. In this TEDxTalk, Dr. Gabriella Mastromonaco explains that zoos play a vital role in preserving endangered species, and that they have a responsibility to explore the use of reproductive technologies to sustain animal populations that are currently threatened in the wild. Dr. Mastromonaco asks: If you had the opportunity to save an endangered species, would you just turn your back and walk away?
Dr. Mastromonaco has worked at the Toronto Zoo managing reproductive programs for the past seven years. With over fifteen years of experience in the field of assisted reproductive technologies, she has worked on a variety of domestic and non-domestic species, and even humans. Her primary focus is to understand the differences in reproductive biology of diverse species and apply that knowledge to help
preserve threatened and endangered species.
About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)
