The Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) is the largest of the Asiatic rhinoceros species. Once ranging throughout most of Southeast Asia, wild populations of Indian rhinoceros are now found in two protected areas, southern Nepal and Assam, India. Wild population estimates for the Indian rhinoceros currently range from 2,000-2,400 animals with the captive population consisting of 138 animals distributed in 52 zoological institutions throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.

Although captive breeding of the Indian rhinoceros has been rather successful in terms of the number of offspring produced, genetic representation is significantly skewed towards a few highly prolific founders. In order to guarantee maximal genetic variation in subsequent generations of captive Indian rhinoceros, breeding and successful reproduction must occur with regularity between specifically paired males and females. The logistical and financial challenges of getting the best pairs together for breeding as well as the frequently severe aggression between males and females have impeded attempts to naturally breed the best genetic matches. In 1997, CREW scientists initiated research into the reproductive physiology of the Indian rhinoceros to enhance breeding success and develop assisted reproductive techniques that would help to ensure a genetically healthy captive population.