Protected areas and in-situ conservation – UGC NET Question

In-situ conservation means protecting species in the ecosystems where they naturally occur. National parks and wildlife sanctuaries maintain habitats and ecological processes, allowing species to continue their evolution and interactions. This approach preserves not only individual species but also community relationships and genetic diversity. Therefore, national parks conserving species in their natural surroundings are prime examples of in-situ conservation.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because zoological parks keep animals in captivity outside their natural habitats. This is an ex-situ strategy, useful but different from in-situ habitat protection.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect as seed banks store genetic material off-site. Although valuable for crop conservation, they do not maintain species within natural ecosystems.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect since botanical gardens cultivate plants, often outside their native ranges and in controlled settings. Like zoos and seed banks, they represent ex-situ conservation.

Option D:
Option D is correct because national parks maintain natural landscapes and ecological integrity. They allow species to live and reproduce where ecological interactions and evolutionary processes can continue.