CRISPR and Genetic Engineering in Zoology: Novel Approaches for Wildlife Conservation and Ecological Restoration

Abstract

The Sixth Mass Extinction represents a profound biological crisis characterized by accelerated vertebrate population declines and the pervasive erosion of genetic diversity. Traditional conservation strategies, while essential, often fail to mitigate the mutational meltdown and loss of adaptive plasticity inherent in fragmented populations. This review examines the transformative shift in zoology from passive preservation to active genetic intervention facilitated by CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) technology. We provide a comprehensive analysis of the molecular toolkit spanning traditional CRISPR-Cas9 to high precision base and prime editing and its diverse applications in wildlife conservation. Key themes include genetic rescue through the introduction of rare alleles, as exemplified by the Florida panther, and assisted evolution in climate vulnerable taxa such as scleractinian corals. Furthermore, we explore the potent role of RNA guided gene drives in eradicating invasive species and suppressing disease vectors, alongside the provocative science of de-extinction aimed at restoring ecological functions via proxy species like the woolly mammoth. A critical focus is placed on the technical and biological hurdles of evolutionary resistance, which threatens the long-term efficacy of these interventions. Finally, we synthesize the ethical, legal, and social frameworks necessary to navigate the wicked problems of synthetic biology. We conclude that while CRISPR offers an unprecedented lifeline for biodiversity, its success depends on the integration of rigorous ecological modelling, transboundary governance, and a commitment to procedural environmental justice