UPSC Prelims 2011 · Question 82 of 100

UPSC Prelims 2011 question on In Situ Conservation Sites

Which one of the following is not a site for in-situ method of conservation of flora?

  1. Biosphere Reserve
  2. Botanical Garden
  3. National Park
  4. Wildlife Sanctuary
Show answer

Answer: B. Botanical Garden

Verdict

Correct Answer: Botanical Garden

Analysis

In-situ conservation means conserving species within their natural habitat. Botanical gardens conserve plants outside their natural habitat, so they are an example of ex-situ conservation.

1. Biosphere Reserve — Incorrect

A biosphere reserve protects plants, animals and ecosystems in their natural surroundings.

Therefore, it is a site for in-situ conservation.

2. Botanical Garden — Correct

A botanical garden conserves plants in a controlled, artificial environment outside their natural habitat.

Therefore, it is not a site for in-situ conservation; it is an ex-situ conservation method.

3. National Park — Incorrect

A national park protects wildlife and ecosystems in their natural habitat.

Hence, it is an in-situ conservation site.

4. Wildlife Sanctuary — Incorrect

A wildlife sanctuary protects species within their natural ecosystem.

So, it is also an in-situ conservation method.

Extra UPSC info

* In-situ conservation means on-site conservation within natural habitats.

* Ex-situ conservation means off-site conservation outside natural habitats.

* Examples of in-situ conservation: national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere reserves and sacred groves.

* Examples of ex-situ conservation: botanical gardens, zoological parks, seed banks, gene banks and aquariums.

* In-situ conservation protects entire ecosystems and natural evolutionary processes.

* Ex-situ conservation is useful for threatened species, research and education.

How to crack it

Botanical garden is not an in-situ conservation site because it conserves plants outside their natural habitat.

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