The biological wealth of our planet has been declining rapidly and the accusing finger is clearly pointing to human activities. The colonisation of tropical pacific islands by humans is said to have led to extinction of more than 2000 species of native birds. The IUCN red list documents the extinction of 784 species. Since the origin and diversification of life on earth, there were five episodes of mass extinction of species. Current species extinction rate as estimated to be 100-1000 times faster. There are four major causes called “The Evil quartet” Habitat loss, over exploitation, Alien species invasion and co-extinction. Conservation efforts are necessary to preserve biodiversity and protect endangered species and their habitats.

Select the one which is NOT an ex-situ conservation of biodiversity :

National parks

The correct answer is Option (3)- National parks

National Parks (In-situ Conservation): National parks are indeed in-situ conservation strategies. In-situ conservation involves the protection and preservation of species within their natural habitats. National parks are established to conserve the biodiversity of an area in its natural setting, allowing species to live and interact with their ecosystems.

Zoological Parks, Botanical Gardens, and Seed Banks (Ex-situ Conservation): Zoological parks, botanical gardens, and seed banks are examples of ex-situ conservation strategies. Ex-situ conservation involves the conservation of species outside their natural habitats. In zoological parks, live animals are conserved, while botanical gardens house live plant collections, and seed banks store seeds for future use. These facilities are valuable for preserving species that are endangered or for maintaining genetic diversity.

These conservation strategies are important for the protection of species and contribute to the preservation of biodiversity.