Question

All of the following are included in 'Ex-situ conservation' except

• A. sacred groves
• B. botanical gardens
• C. wildlife safari parks
• D. seed banks

Answer 1

The correct option is A sacred groves

Conservation of biodiversity can be done using two different approaches, i.e, in situ conservation and ex situ conservation.

While in situ conservation involves conserving and protecting organisms in their natural habitat, ex situ conservation involves conservation of organisms in controlled environments, outside their natural environment.

Sacred groves refer to the forest tracts that are held in high regard and esteem due to their association with nearby places of worship. The social traditions and taboos associated with these places inculcate values amongst the members of the local communities which cause them to protect the plants and wildlife in these areas.

Thus, these forests have minimal human impact and hence act as an ideal site for the conservation of organisms in their natural habitat. Hence sacred groves are categorized as one of the in-situ strategies for the conservation of biodiversity.

The approach of conserving threatened and endangered species of plants and animals by taking them out of their natural habitat and protecting and caring for them in a special and controlled environment is known as ex situ conservation.

Botanical gardens, wildlife safaris and seed banks are set up to serve this purpose. Ex situ conservation is done when urgent measures are required for conserving a species.