Question

While Bengal tigers are protected in special settings in Zoological parks, tiger reserves are maintained in Western Ghats. How do these two approaches differ from each other? Mention the advantages of each one.

Answer 1

While Bengal tigers are protected in special settings in zoological parks through ex situ (off-site) conservation, tiger reserves in the Western Ghats are an example of in situ (on-site) conservation. Ex situ conservation is suitable for urgent protection of endangered animals like tigers by keeping them in controlled environments away from their natural habitat. Its advantage is immediate protection and breeding under controlled conditions. In contrast, tiger reserves conserve the entire ecosystem and biodiversity by protecting the forest habitat where tigers live. This approach ensures survival of the species in their natural environment and maintains ecological balance. Tiger reserves also benefit other wildlife species and preserve forest integrity.