Gene Banks

Gene Banks Gene banks are a type of biorepository which preserve genetic materials. Seeds of different genetic strains of commercially important plants can be stored in long periods in seed banks, gametes of threatened species can be preserved in viable and fertile condition for long periods using cryopreservation techniques. However, it is not economically feasible to conserve all biological wealth and all the ecosystems. The number of species required to be saved from extinction far exceeds the conservation efforts. Insitu Conservation Exsitu Conservation It is the on-site conservation or the conservation of genetic resources in natural populations of plant or animal species. This is a conservation strategy which involves placing of threatened animals and plants in special care locations for their protection. It is the process of protecting an endangered plant or animal species in its natural habitat, either by protecting or restoring the habitat itself, or by defending the species from predators. It helps in recovering populations or preventing their extinction under simulated conditions that closely resemble their natural habitats. National Parks, Biosphere Reserve, Wild Life Sanctuaries form insitu conservation strategies. Zoological parks and Botanical gardens are common exsitu conservation programs. Table . Difference between Insitu and Exsitu Conservation XII Std Biology-Zoology Chapter- XII Std Biology-Zoology Chapter- Biodiversity and its Conservation Over the past few hundred years, biodiversity has faced major challenges, including a growing demand for biological resources caused by population growth and increased consumption. This increased exploitation of biological resources has resulted in the loss of species at levels currently estimated to be times faster than the natural rate of loss prior to significant human intervention. Though many species were lost and new ones formed, it is likely we will lose all this natural wealth in less than two centuries, if the present rate of biodiversity losses persist. The biodiversity and its conservation is the important global issue of international concern. Recognition of this problem has made scientists and policy makers to work and develop mechanisms to document, conserve and sustainably use biodiversity. The younger generation should be made to realize the critical state of biodiversity today and volunteer to protect and conserve it, so as to enable the future generations get to enjoy the benefits of Nature.