Question

What do you mean by Biodiversity? Describe its different methods of conservation in detail.

Hint:

In-situ conservation preserves biodiversity within natural habitats, while ex-situ conservation preserves species outside their natural environment.

Answer 1

Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of life on Earth. It includes the diversity of species, ecosystems, and genetic variations within species. Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem stability, resilience, and providing ecosystem services such as clean air, water, food, and climate regulation.
Methods of Conservation of Biodiversity:
There are two main approaches to biodiversity conservation: in-situ conservation and ex-situ conservation. Both methods aim to protect the natural habitat and the species within it.
1. In-Situ Conservation:
In-situ conservation refers to the conservation of species in their natural habitats. It is the most effective way of protecting biodiversity. The following are key methods of in-situ conservation:
- Protected Areas: National parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves are designated areas where human activities are restricted to protect wildlife and plant species.
- Wildlife Corridors: These are pathways that connect isolated protected areas, allowing species to migrate, interbreed, and access new habitats.
- Sacred Groves: Areas protected and preserved by local communities due to cultural or religious beliefs.
- Restoration of Habitats: Active restoration of damaged ecosystems, such as reforestation and wetland restoration, to revive biodiversity.
2. Ex-Situ Conservation:
Ex-situ conservation involves the preservation of species outside their natural habitats. This method is used for species that are at risk of extinction or whose habitats are destroyed. Some common ex-situ conservation methods are:
- Botanical Gardens: Institutions that conserve plant species, especially rare and endangered ones, outside their natural environment.
- Zoological Parks: Zoos that house animals in artificial environments, where they can be bred, studied, and sometimes reintroduced into the wild.
- Seed Banks: Facilities where seeds of various plant species are stored for future use, such as in case of habitat destruction.
- Cryopreservation: The preservation of genetic material, such as sperm, eggs, and seeds, at extremely low temperatures for future research and breeding.