The following measures should be taken to conserve biodiversity.
1.Illegal hunting and trade of animals and animal products should be stopped immediately
2. People-at-large should boycott purchasing coats, purse or bags made of animal skin
3. Bio-diversity laws should be strengthened.
Types of conservation:
1. In-situ conservation
2. Ex-situ conservation
In-situ conservation:
In-situ conservation involves protection of flora and fauna within its natural habitat. The natural habitats or ecosystems under in-situ conservation are called "protected areas".
a.Biosphere reserves
b. National parks
c. Wildlife sanctuaries
d. Gene sanctuaries
Biosphere reserves They cover large areas (>5000 sq.km.) They are normally used to protect species for a long time.
National parks It is an area dedicated for the conservation of wildlife along with its environment. It covers an area ranging from 100 to 500 sq.km. One or more national parks may exist within a biosphere reserve. A national park is used for enjoyment through tourism, without affecting the environment.
Wildlife sanctuaries is an area that is reserved for the conservation of animals only. i. It protects animals only ii. It allows operations such as harvesting of timber, collection of forest products, private ownership rights and forestry operations, provided it does not affect animals adversely.
Gene sanctuaries It is an area where plants are conserved.
Advantages of in-situ conservation It is cheap and convenient. Species get adjusted to natural disasters like drought, floods, forest fires etc.
Disadvantages of in-situ conservation A large surface area of earth is required to preserve biodiversity Maintenance is not proper due to shortage of staff and pollution
EX-SITU CONSERVATION
Ex-situ conservation involves protection of flora and fauna outside their natural habitats. This type of conservation is mainly done for conservation of crop varieties and wild relatives of crops. Important centers of ex-situ conservation:
1.Botanical gardens
2. Seed banks
3. Microbial culture collections
4. Tissue and cell cultures
5. Museums and
6. Zoological gardens
Advantages of Ex-situ conservation
1. Survival of endangered species is increasing due to special care and attention
2. In captive breeding the animals are assured of food, water, shelter and security thereby have a longer life span
Disadvantages of Ex-situ conservation
1. It is an expensive method
2. Freedom of wildlife is lost
