In Situ Conservation: Tools, Strategies, and Challenges

India is recognized as a mega biodiversity hotspot, contributing 11.72% of the world’s fish biodiversity. The loss of biodiversity is one of the most pressing global crises, raising concerns about the status of biological resources vital to human life. Following the signing of the Convention on Biological Diversity, there has been global focus on the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. In India, conserving its extensive and varied aquatic resources is crucial, not only because a significant portion of food resources still comes from the wild but also to maintain ecological and socioeconomic balance. Conservation of fish diversity is essential to sustain ecological, nutritional, and socioeconomic stability. Species diversity and genetic variability are key for the long-term stability of complex ecosystems and species. Addressing the challenge of conserving the country’s fish diversity and aquatic resources requires coordinated efforts, integrating in situ programs with the latest technological innovations and strict enforcement of laws. Therefore, conservation policies should encourage management practices that uphold the integrity of aquatic ecosystems, prevent endangerment, and enhance the recovery of threatened species. This chapter aims to review the relevant approaches and strategies of in situ conservation and to outline future research opportunities to promote conservation and sustainable fish production.