TED: The intended consequences of helping nature thrive | Ryan Phelan

The video discusses the use of biotechnology in wildlife conservation, focusing on genetic rescue efforts for endangered species like the black-footed ferret and Przewalski's horse. It highlights the challenges of biodiversity loss due to climate change and human activities, and the potential of genetic engineering to address these issues. The video also explores the moral and philosophical questions surrounding human intervention in nature, emphasizing the need for balanced risk management and public engagement in conservation efforts.

What is the significance of Elizabeth Ann in conservation efforts?

• She is the first cloned animal.

• She is the last of her species.

• She represents a new hope for restoring genetic diversity.

• She was the first animal to be reintroduced into the wild.

What is the extinction vortex?

• A phenomenon where species become extinct due to natural disasters.

• A situation where small populations lose genetic diversity and face extinction.

• A process of cloning endangered species.

• A method of preserving species in biobanks.

How does genetic rescue help endangered species?

• By providing them with more food resources.

• By relocating them to safer habitats.

• By introducing new genetic variation to improve survival.

• By increasing their population size.

What role does genomic sequencing play in conservation?

• It is used to track animal migration.

• It helps in breeding programs.

• It helps identify new species.

• It provides data to manage species' genetic health.

What is a potential benefit of genetic engineering for coral?

• It can change the color of coral.

• It can help coral adapt to warmer ocean temperatures.

• It can make coral grow faster.

• It can make coral resistant to predators.

What is the main challenge in using new technologies for conservation?

• Fear of unintended consequences.

• Lack of public interest.

• Insufficient scientific knowledge.

• Lack of funding.

What was the impact of the fungal blight on the American chestnut tree?

• It made the trees grow faster.

• It caused the extinction of the trees.

• It had no significant impact.

• It led to the trees being used for furniture.

Why is public engagement important in conservation initiatives?

• To reduce the cost of conservation efforts.

• To ensure funding for projects.

• To increase the number of scientists working on projects.

• To gain support and acceptance for new technologies.

What is a moral question often faced in conservation efforts?

• The difference between intentional action and inaction.

• Whether to prioritize one species over another.

• How to allocate limited resources.

• Whether to involve local communities.

What is a potential advantage of inaction in conservation?

• It is more scientifically sound.

• It requires fewer resources.

• It avoids blame for negative outcomes.

• It is less costly.