Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
captive-breeding
noun
/ˈkæptɪv ˈbridɪŋ/
Definition
The practice of breeding animals in controlled environments, such as zoos or wildlife reserves, to protect species from extinction and to foster population recovery.
Examples
- The endangered California condor was saved from extinction through a successful captive-breeding program.
- Many zoos participate in captive-breeding initiatives to help preserve various species.
- Scientists believe that careful captive-breeding can restore population numbers of rare fish species.
Meaning
Captive-breeding refers to the method of breeding animals in captivity to ensure their survival and to support reintroduction efforts in the wild.
Synonyms
- Breeding in captivity
- Conservation breeding
- Controlled breeding
