Question

Sites of in-situ conservation include:

• A. Sacred groves of Khasi and Jaintia hills in Meghalaya
• B. National Zoological Park, New Delhi
• C. Western Ghats in Karnataka
• D. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
• E. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (C), (D), (E)

The correct options are
A Sacred groves of Khasi and Jaintia hills in Meghalaya
C Western Ghats in Karnataka
D Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
E Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka

In situ conservation denotes the protection and rehabilitation of the organisms and their natural environment in the wild. Sacred Groves are tracts of forest that are set aside and all the trees and wildlife within are venerated and given total protection. By protecting the ecological habitat, we are indirectly protecting the endemic species of that habitat. Similarly, the Western Ghats are a biodiversity hotspot that are protected by law. These regions have high species diversity and by conserving the entire region as a hotspot, we can ensure the survival of these endemic species. The Ranthambore National park and the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary are both controlled natural environments of the native animals and birds. These areas have limited to no human activity to ensure that the endemic species can inhabit these areas without disturbances. All the examples mentioned except for the National Zoological Park in New Delhi are instances of conserving the natural habitat in order to save the species within the habitat. A Zoological Park does not represent the natural habitat of the animals but instead, it is a closely monitored man-made environment and hence, would not fall under in situ conservation.