There is a forest next to Raju's village which is a natural habitat for an endangered species of lotus. The Government plans to develop a highway through the forest which will cause disturbance in the habitat and may lead to extinction of the endangered species. Being an environmental activist, what must have Raju suggested the Government in order to save the species as the highway project is also important for the development of the village?

Options

A. In situ conservation
B. Migration
C. Ex situ conservation
D. Deforestation

Answer

To address the situation regarding the endangered species of lotus and the proposed highway project, Raju, as an environmental activist, could suggest the following steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Problem**: The government plans to build a highway through a forest that is the natural habitat of an endangered species of lotus. This construction poses a threat to the species and could lead to its extinction.

2. **Understand Conservation Methods**: Raju should be familiar with different conservation strategies, particularly in-situ and ex-situ conservation. In-situ conservation refers to protecting species in their natural habitats, while ex-situ conservation involves preserving species outside their natural environments.

3. **Evaluate Conservation Options**:
- **In-situ Conservation**: This method would not be suitable in this case, as the construction of the highway would disrupt the natural habitat of the lotus.
- **Ex-situ Conservation**: This approach would involve relocating the endangered lotus species to a controlled environment, such as a botanical garden or a specialized facility, where they can be preserved and studied without the threat of habitat destruction.

4. **Suggest Ex-situ Conservation**: Raju should propose that the government implement an ex-situ conservation strategy. This would involve:
- Collecting seeds or specimens of the endangered lotus.
- Establishing a conservation facility where these specimens can thrive away from their natural habitat.
- Conducting research and breeding programs to ensure the species can be reintroduced into the wild in the future.

5. **Advocate for a Balanced Approach**: While suggesting ex-situ conservation, Raju should also emphasize the importance of the highway project for the development of the village. He can propose that the government explore alternative routes for the highway that would minimize impact on the forest and the lotus habitat.

6. **Engage the Community**: Raju could encourage community involvement in conservation efforts, raising awareness about the importance of protecting endangered species and the role of the forest in the local ecosystem.

### Conclusion:
Raju should advocate for ex-situ conservation as a viable solution to protect the endangered lotus species while allowing for the highway development that is crucial for the village's growth.