Question: 162: In-situ conservation refers to:
(1) Conserve only endangered species
(2) Conserve only extinct species
(3) Protect and conserve the whole ecosystem
(4) Conserve only high-risk species
Answer: Option (3)
Explanation:
In-situ conservation means conserving species in their natural habitats where they live and evolve naturally. This approach focuses on protecting the entire ecosystem rather than individual species alone.
National parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves are examples of in-situ conservation methods,
where plants, animals, and microorganisms are preserved along with their natural interactions and environment.
Options (1) and (4) are incorrect because in-situ conservation does not focus only on endangered or
high-risk species, but includes all organisms present in the ecosystem.
Option (2) is incorrect because extinct species cannot be conserved.
Therefore, in-situ conservation refers to protecting and conserving the whole ecosystem.