Research indicates that zoos and aquariums in Britain and Ireland have the potential to enhance their role in protecting endangered species. A study examining the collections of 113 institutions affiliated with the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) found that the majority of captive vertebrates are non-native and not classified as globally threatened, raising questions about how effectively these facilities support conservation efforts.

The research, led by Justin Lennon of the University of Brighton, compiled data on over 2,600 vertebrate species housed in captivity, encompassing more than 106,000 individual animals. Fish were identified as the most numerous, accounting for roughly 61 percent of all captive specimens, followed by birds (16 percent), mammals (15 percent), amphibians (5 percent), and reptiles (4 percent). Despite amphibians being the vertebrate group most at risk globally, they represented the smallest diversity and population size in the zoos surveyed.

Among the captive species, fewer than one-third are listed as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Additionally, only about 9 percent of the species kept are native to Britain or Ireland, and a mere 2 percent appear on recognized conservation priority lists. The populations of threatened species tend to be smaller than those of non-threatened species, suggesting a preference for species that are less at risk.

Historically, zoos primarily served as entertainment venues. Over time, their mission expanded to include education, scientific research, and conservation. However, Lennon and his colleagues note that these multifaceted roles can sometimes lead to conflicting objectives. Charismatic and visually appealing species are more likely to draw visitors and generate revenue, but these species are often not heavily involved in breeding programs aimed at reintroduction or long-term conservation.

Lennon acknowledged that although BIAZA member institutions show a bias towards globally stable species, they are contributing to the conservation of native and priority species in the region. Nonetheless, he emphasized that zoos and aquariums have room for improvement in increasing both the diversity and population sizes of threatened animals in their care.

“Modern zoos are no longer simply places where animals are displayed,” Lennon stated. “They have become centres for conservation breeding, scientific research, education, and international collaboration, working together to safeguard species that may one day return to the wild.” The study’s findings highlight the ongoing challenge for zoos to balance public engagement with their critical role in species preservation.