The US government is working with Texas-based company Colossal Biosciences to create a national repository of genetic material from endangered and threatened species. The project aims to preserve biodiversity amid efforts to ease certain environmental protections.
The partnership focuses on building a BioVault to store genetic samples. Colossal Biosciences, known for its de-extinction work, will collaborate on this national effort.
This development occurs as the Trump administration seeks to reduce some endangered species safeguards. Officials have recently waived protections to allow expanded offshore oil and gas drilling.
The repository is intended to help prevent species extinction by maintaining genetic diversity. Details on the timeline or specific species involved were not disclosed in initial announcements.