The introduction of the Nile perch into Lake Victoria resulted in the extinction of which unique group of fish species?

Cichlid fish

The correct answer is Option (4)- Cichlid fish

The introduction of the Nile perch into Lake Victoria resulted in the extinction of a unique group of fish species known as cichlid fish. The Nile perch was introduced into Lake Victoria in East Africa, and its introduction had devastating consequences for the lake's ecological balance. The Nile perch, being a large and predatory fish, preyed upon the native cichlid fish species in the lake.

Lake Victoria was historically known for its incredible diversity of cichlid fish species, with more than 200 different species inhabiting its waters. However, with the introduction of the Nile perch, which had no natural predators in the lake, it caused a decline in the native cichlid fish population.

Over time, the cichlid fish species in Lake Victoria faced severe predation pressure from the invasive Nile perch, leading to their decline and, in some cases, extinction. The unique and ecologically diverse assemblage of cichlid fish in the lake was greatly affected, illustrating the negative impact of introducing non-native species into ecosystems and the importance of protecting native biodiversity.