Sacred groves are specially useful in
(a) generating environmental awareness
(b) preventing soil erosion
(c) year-round flow of water in rivers
(d) conserving rare and threatened species

Options

A. generating environmental awareness
B. preventing soil erosion
C. year-round flow of water in rivers
D. conserving rate and threatened species

Answer

To answer the question about the usefulness of sacred groves, let's analyze the options provided:

1. **Understanding Sacred Groves**: Sacred groves are areas of forest that are protected for religious or cultural reasons. They are often rich in biodiversity and serve as important ecosystems.

2. **Option A - Generating Environmental Awareness**: While sacred groves can promote environmental awareness due to their cultural significance, this is not their primary function.

3. **Option B - Preventing Soil Erosion**: Sacred groves can help prevent soil erosion due to their vegetation, but this is not their main purpose.

4. **Option C - Year-round Flow of Water in Rivers**: Sacred groves may contribute to maintaining water cycles, but they do not directly ensure a year-round flow of water in rivers.

5. **Option D - Conserving Rare and Threatened Species**: Sacred groves are particularly important for the conservation of rare and threatened species. They provide a habitat for various plants and animals that might be endangered elsewhere. The religious beliefs associated with these groves often lead to their protection, allowing biodiversity to thrive.

Based on the analysis, the correct answer is:
**(d) conserving rare and threatened species.**