DNA Banks: Protecting Endangered Species

The video discusses the collection of specimens by historic figures and the importance of preserving genetic codes of endangered species. It highlights the threats to wildlife, such as habitat loss and extinction, and the efforts to monitor and preserve DNA samples using modern techniques. The Natural History Museum plays a crucial role in these preservation efforts, ensuring that valuable genetic information is available for future scientific research.

Which historic figures are mentioned as having collected specimens for the museum?

• Albert Einstein and Isaac Newton

• Charles Darwin and Sir Joseph Banks

• Marie Curie and Louis Pasteur

• Galileo Galilei and Johannes Kepler

What is the main threat to the wandering albatross?

• Pollution

• Deforestation

• Long line fishing boats

• Climate change

What percentage of the planet's mammals are expected to be at risk of extinction due to habitat loss in the next 30 years?

• 3/4

• 50%

• 10%

• 1/4

Why is it important for biologists to preserve DNA samples of threatened species?

• For potential cloning and scientific research

• To sell them to collectors

• To create new species

• To display them in museums

How long have some specimens been preserved on museum shelves?

• 150 years

• 200 years

• 50 years

• 100 years