To solve the question "An example of ex situ conservation is:", we need to understand the concept of ex situ conservation.
Understanding Ex Situ Conservation:
Ex situ conservation refers to the preservation of components of biological diversity outside their natural habitats. This involves conserving the genetic diversity of species by maintaining them outside their natural surroundings. Common examples include zoos, botanical gardens, and seed banks.
Analyzing the Options:
- Seed Bank: A seed bank is a facility used to store seeds of various plants. It is an example of ex situ conservation as it maintains seeds outside their natural environment, preserving plant genetic diversity.
- Wildlife Sanctuary: This is a protected area that provides in situ conservation, meaning it protects wildlife within their natural habitats.
- Sacred Grove: Sacred groves are tracts of forest that have been protected for religious reasons and are examples of in situ conservation.
- National Park: National parks are large areas of protected land, preserving the natural state of wildlife habitats, classed under in situ conservation.
Conclusion:
Among the given options, Seed Bank is the only example of ex situ conservation. It is a facility where seeds are stored and conserved outside their natural environment.