In-situ conservation of biodiversity means protecting plants and animals in their natural environment. Instead of moving them to a zoo or garden, we safeguard their habitats, like forests and wetlands. Examples of In-situ conservation are National Parks, Sacred Groves (SG), Biosphere Reserves, and Wildlife Sanctuaries etc.This way, they can live and grow naturally, helping to maintain a healthy balance in nature and preventing the loss of diverse species.
Question: Which one of the following is not a method of In-situ Conservation of Biodiversity?
(a) Biosphere Reserve
(b) Wildlife Sanctuary
(c) Botanical Garden
(d) Sacred Groves
Answer: The correct answer is (c). Botanical Garden.
📌📌📌 Explanation:
In-situ conservation involves the conservation of species within their natural habitats. Let’s analyze each option to understand why Botanical Garden does not fit this category:
(a). Biosphere Reserves: Biosphere Reserves are designated areas that aim to reconcile conservation with sustainable use. They include core zones (undisturbed ecosystems), buffer zones (limited human activity), and transition zones (areas of cooperation between conservation and sustainable development). Biosphere Reserves are, indeed, a method of in-situ conservation.
(b). Wildlife Sanctuary: Wildlife Sanctuaries are areas set aside for the conservation of wildlife and their habitats. These areas provide a natural environment for species to thrive without significant human disturbance. Wildlife Sanctuaries are considered in-situ conservation methods. Read More: List of wildlife sanctuaries of India
(c). Botanical Garden: Botanical Gardens are not in-situ conservation methods; they are examples of ex-situ conservation. Botanical Gardens involve the cultivation and maintenance of plants outside their natural habitat. While they play a crucial role in preserving plant species, they do not conserve biodiversity within the species’ native ecosystems.
(d). Sacred Groves: Sacred Groves are areas conserved by local communities due to cultural or religious beliefs. These are in-situ conservation areas where the natural habitat is protected to maintain biodiversity.
In-situ Conservation Methods:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Biosphere Reserve | Designated areas with core, buffer, and transition zones for the conservation and sustainable use. |
| Wildlife Sanctuary | Protected areas for wildlife conservation and habitat preservation. |
| Botanical Garden | Cultivation and preservation of plant species outside their natural habitat. |
| Sacred Grove | Locally protected areas, often due to cultural or religious significance, for biodiversity. |
Example:
Consider the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in India, which encompasses core areas like Mudumalai National Park, wildlife sanctuaries like Silent Valley, and transition zones like the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve itself.
Conclusion: In conclusion, in-situ conservation methods, such as Biosphere Reserves and Wildlife Sanctuaries, focus on preserving biodiversity within natural habitats. Botanical Gardens, involving cultivation outside natural settings, are considered ex-situ conservation. Sacred Groves, culturally protected areas, exemplify in-situ conservation. Understanding these distinctions is vital for effective biodiversity preservation strategies.
