Assisted reproduction in Mediterranean wild ruminants: lessons from the Spanish ibex (Capra pyrenaica)

Despite apparent progress in reproductive technology as applied to wild ruminants, the success achieved in terms of the number of offspring that become healthy adults has remained low. Difficulties often arise through a lack of knowledge regarding appropriate cryopreservation techniques, and indeed through a lack of detailed information on the reproductive physiology of the species in question. The Spanish ibex (Capra pyrenaica) is a wild caprid found exclusively in the mountains of Iberia; only two of the original four subspecies still exist. Great efforts need to be made to preserve this species. The endocrine and environmental mechanisms that control its seasonal reproduction need to be properly understood, reproductive technologies (particularly the cryopreservation of gametes) optimised, and genetic resource banks developed. The experience obtained with the Spanish ibex may be useful in ex situ conservation strategies designed to preserve other threatened Mediterranean wild ruminants.