Conserving and safeguarding the entire ecosystem ensures the preservation of biodiversity at all levels, illustrating the principle of "saving the entire forest to protect the tiger." This approach is known as in situ (on-site) conservation. However, in certain cases where a particular animal or plant species is at risk of extinction and requires immediate intervention, ex situ (off-site) conservation becomes the preferred method. In situ conservation involves protecting the natural habitat and the various organisms that inhabit it, ensuring the continuity of their ecological processes. By preserving the ecosystem as a whole, we indirectly safeguard the survival of individual species, such as the tiger in the forest example. On the other hand, ex situ conservation focuses on taking endangered or threatened species out of their natural environment and placing them in specialized facilities, such as botanical gardens, zoos, or seed banks. This approach is essential when the species faces imminent extinction and requires immediate and dedicated efforts for their survival. These off-site facilities provide a controlled environment where proper care and breeding programs can be implemented to enhance the species' chances of survival and eventual reintroduction into the wild if possible.

What is the primary goal of in situ conservation?

Protection and conservation of species within their natural habitats

The correct answer is Option (2) - Protection and conservation of species  within their natural habitats.

In situ conservation strategies involve the protection and conservation of species and ecosystems within their natural habitats. In-situ conservation is a set of methods aimed at preserving all living species, particularly wild and endangered ones, within their natural habitats and environments. This approach involves the protection and management of biodiversity in its original ecosystem. Examples of in-situ conservation strategies include biosphere reserves, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries,sacred groves and other protected areas that aim to maintain the ecological integrity and diversity of the region. These designated areas serve as havens for various plant and animal species, ensuring their survival and contributing to the overall conservation of biodiversity.