Question

The cryopreservation of gametes of threatened species in viable and fertile condition can be referred to as-
A. In situ conservation by sacred groves
B. In situ cryo conservation of biodiversity
C. In situ conservation of biodiversity
D. Advanced ex-situ conservation of biodiversity

Answer 1

The process of protecting endangered species can be carried out through two approaches. The categories involved are ex-situ and in situ models of conservation.

Complete answer:
The process of preserving the species outside its natural environment in an artificially created environment is known as ex-situ conservation. It is an in-vitro process. Since cryopreservation involves freezing and storing cells for a long time to maintain their viability in specialized labs, it is a method of ex-situ conservation. Thus advanced ex-situ conservation of biodiversity includes the cryopreservation of gametes of threatened species in viable and fertile conditions.
Considering the other given options:
In situ conservation by sacred groves is an example of in vivo conservation. Where the organisms are maintained in their natural habitats. This cannot include cryopreservation which is an ex-situ method.
Cryopreservation cannot be an in situ process since it is carried out with the maintenance of an artificial environment at specialized locations.
Cryoconservation is an ex-situ method, hence it cannot be included in the process of in situ conservation of biodiversity.

Thus the most appropriate answer is D) that is the cryopreservation of gametes of threatened species in viable and fertile conditions can be referred to as advanced ex-situ conservation of biodiversity.

Note: There are many risks associated with cryopreservation. Due to the lowered temperature, there can be ice formation within and outside the cells that are preserved. The extracellular ice formation can also lead to loss of water within the cells causing dehydration.