In March 2023, Colossal facilitated a pivotal three-day summit with global Sumatran rhino conservation stakeholders and leading researchers in rhino reproduction. Delegates from IPB University, the Government of Indonesia and Re:wild visited Colossal’s headquarters in Dallas, Texas. The workshop resulted in a coordinated plan to leverage advanced assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) to boost the population of this endangered rhino. The Foundation is now advancing this work through several key efforts:
Protecting Sumatran Rhinos from Extinction
Project Details:
With fewer than 80 Sumatran rhinos remaining in fragmented populations across Sumatra and Borneo, urgent conservation efforts are critical. Recent births within Indonesia’s national conservation breeding program have provided hope for this critically endangered species. Building on these successes, The Colossal Foundation is supporting a comprehensive initiative to enhance the Indonesian government’s efforts in saving the Sumatran rhino.
In Partnership With
IPB University is a prestigious institution renowned for its excellence in agriculture and natural resource sciences. Established in 1963, it has since evolved into a comprehensive university with a diverse range of academic programs spanning agriculture, forestry, fisheries, veterinary medicine, and environmental sciences. With a commitment to research, innovation, and sustainable development, IPB University stands as a global leader in addressing critical challenges related to Agriculture, Ocean, Biosciences for a Sustainable World. Its dedication to nurturing future leaders and advancing knowledge makes it a key player in Indonesia’s educational landscape and a hub for impactful research on a global scale.
Re:wild protects and restores the wild. We have a singular and powerful focus: the wild as the most effective solution to the interconnected climate, biodiversity and human wellbeing crises. Founded by a group of renowned conservation scientists together with Leonardo DiCaprio, Re:wild is a force multiplier that brings together Indigenous peoples, local communities, influential leaders, nongovernmental organizations, governments, companies and the public to protect and rewild at the scale and speed we need.
Support for National Conservation Breeding Program:
The Colossal Foundation is committed to supporting the Indonesian government’s national conservation breeding program by providing funding, technological support, and strategic guidance to ensure successful breeding.
Technology and Skill Transfer:
In partnership with IPB University, the Foundation is transferring critical ART technologies and skills to local experts, building local capacity and ensuring the sustainability of conservation efforts in Indonesia.
Genetic Sequencing:
The Foundation will provide essential genetic sequencing support. Analyzing the genetic diversity of the existing rhino population will enable researchers to make informed decisions to enhance breeding strategies and ensure the long-term health and viability of the species.
By harnessing advanced technologies and fostering international collaboration, The Colossal Foundation is playing a pivotal role in the fight to save the Sumatran rhino from extinction. This initiative exemplifies the Foundation’s commitment to leveraging innovative conservation methods to protect and preserve endangered species worldwide.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE EFFORT:
Genetic Sequencing:
Sequencing the genomes of Sumatran rhinos provides insights into their genetic diversity and health, essential for developing effective breeding strategies and ensuring the species’ long-term survival.
Advanced Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):
The initiative focuses on the application of cutting-edge ART to boost the Sumatran rhino population. Technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), artificial insemination, and embryo transfer are crucial for overcoming reproductive challenges faced by the species.