A world-first study has catalogued the scientific evidence behind animal management, to help zoos and aquariums make decisions based on the best available science.

Led by Paignton Zoo in collaboration with organisations including the University of Plymouth, the six-year study represents one of the most ambitious undertakings in modern zoo research, screening more than 27,000 academic articles to start a process that could transform how endangered species are cared for across the globe.

Working with Conservation Evidence, based at the University of Cambridge, the researchers collated a database that catalogues evidence for 424 specific management interventions, supported by an international advisory board of 26 zoo science experts.

The findings reveal both progress and persistent gaps in zoo science. While at least some scientific testing exists for 90% of identified zoo practices, many interventions have only minimal research supporting them – highlighting areas where further investigation is urgently needed.