The Mountain Striped Antelope (Antilope striata) is a critically endangered mammal endemic to a single mountain range. Its population has declined due to habitat destruction for agriculture and illegal hunting for trophies. Fewer than 50 individuals remain in the wild, and only 12 are in captivity across three zoos. Captive breeding has been hampered by low reproductive rates and poor genetic diversity. Conservationists plan to use assisted reproduction techniques: in vitro fertilisation (IVF), embryo transfer, and surrogacy. They also maintain a seed bank of the antelope's food plants, have established a national park to protect its habitat, and are working with the IUCN and CITES.
Discuss the role of IVF, embryo transfer, and surrogacy in the conservation of the Mountain Striped Antelope, and evaluate how these methods compare with other conservation strategies such as protected areas, seed banks, and international agreements (e.g., CITES and the IUCN Red List) in ensuring the long-term survival of the species.