Comment on ‘Match.com’ method helps zoo animals find perfect matches

CINCINNATI (AP) — Zookeepers at the Cincinnati Zoo are pairing up compatible animals by drawing inspiration from the online dating website Match.com. Cincinnati Zoo Director Thane Maynard called the internal matchmaking service an animal version of the website. WCPO-TV reported (http://bit.ly/2vTHQZl) it’s not exactly like Match.com — as it draws on expert committees dedicated to Species Survival Plans rather than computer algorithms. But in pairing up animals, experts pay attention to traits like genetic diversity and personality to ensure ideal matches. The plans are coordinated nationwide with other zoos and animal experts to ensure the survival of selected species in zoos and aquariums. There are about 450 Species Survival Plans, each dedicated to a specific animal species.