Why are studbooks important?

Studbooks are the most important tool in scientific management of ex situ populations of wild animals, ensuring a sufficient size, demographic stability, and a high level of genetic diversity.

Studbook keepers maintain the pedigree and demographic history of a specifically defined taxon, such as a genus, species, subspecies, or other specific population in captivity. The study books contain the registration number of each animal of specific species kept under human care, their gender and date of birth, the identity of their parents, where they were born, and where and when they were transferred to other institutions.

Studbooks also catalog any births, captures, transfers, deaths, and releases during the report period. Other important information for managing the species are also included such as information about how to raise them or behavioral characteristics that affect the ability to participate in a genetic improvement program and, in a final analysis, causes of death.

A location glossary tracks the names, addresses, and contact information of all historical and current holders of the species, thus promoting communication between them and the studbook keeper.