Netherlands Freezes Future of Endangered Species in Groundbreaking Gene Bank Expansion
Wageningen, Friday, 19 June 2026.
The Dutch Gene Bank for Animal Genetic Resources has expanded to include rare species like the black bee and even seaweed, storing 390,000 doses of semen from 160 breeds. This genetic vault could be the key to saving biodiversity—and agriculture—from climate change and disease.
A Genetic Vault for the Future: How the Netherlands is Preserving Biodiversity
In a quiet corner of the Netherlands, a biological time capsule is being expanded. The Dutch Centre for Genetic Resources (CGN), managed by Wageningen University & Research (WUR), has significantly broadened the scope of its Animal Genetic Resources Gene Bank. This initiative, operational since at least 2020, now safeguards approximately 390,000 doses of semen from 160 breeds across 11 species, including cattle, pigs, horses, sheep, goats, dogs, chickens, and even ornamental pigeons [1]. The expansion, announced on 16 June 2026, marks a pivotal step in the global effort to preserve biodiversity and ensure the resilience of agricultural systems in the face of climate change and emerging diseases [1].
From Livestock to Seaweed: A Diverse Genetic Repository
The gene bank’s holdings are not limited to traditional livestock. In a groundbreaking move, the CGN has extended its cryopreservation efforts to include species such as the native black bee (Apis mellifera mellifera) and several seaweed species, including sugar kelp (Saccharina latissima), bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus), sea lettuce (Ulva lactuca), and wakame (Undaria pinnatifida) [1]. The inclusion of seaweed, with Ulva lactuca successfully cryopreserved and initial steps taken for Undaria pinnatifida, underscores the gene bank’s adaptability to emerging agricultural and ecological challenges [1]. Additionally, the bank has begun genetic characterization and cryopreservation of aquatic species, including the European eel (Anguilla anguilla), European perch, mussels, sea bass, and turbot, reflecting a holistic approach to biodiversity conservation [1].
The Numbers Behind the Mission
The scale of the CGN’s operations is staggering. As of June 2026, the gene bank holds 390,000 doses of semen, with cattle accounting for approximately 75% of the collection and pigs making up another 10% [1]. Between 2020 and 2025, the CGN cryopreserved genetic material from 689 animals, resulting in 26,000 doses of semen [1]. During the same period, 700 doses were issued for insemination, primarily consisting of bull semen, demonstrating the bank’s dual role in both preservation and active genetic reinforcement [1]. The genetic material is sourced from breeding organizations, artificial insemination (AI) centers, and on-farm collections, ensuring a representative sample of the Netherlands’ genetic heritage [1].
Beyond Animals: Expanding the Scope of Genetic Conservation
The CGN’s efforts extend beyond animal genetics. In 2025, the centre launched management notes—practical guidelines aimed at conserving the genetic diversity of native tree and shrub populations [2]. This initiative complements the gene bank’s existing work with seeds and other plant genetic resources, further solidifying its role in comprehensive biodiversity conservation [2]. The CGN is also involved in monitoring and restoration projects, such as the North Sea oyster reef restoration pilot, where European flat oyster survival rates have been shown to be comparable to other restoration efforts [2]. Additionally, long-term monitoring in the IJsselmeer has revealed the recovery of key fish populations, including pikeperch (Sander lucioperca), perch (Perca fluviatilis), common bream (Abramis brama), and bream (Abramis brama), following fishery measures implemented in 2014 [2].