Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Biology

Chapter

Biodiversity and Conservation

Question:

Which one of the following statements is incorrect?

 

Options:

African catfish poses a threat to indigenous catfishes.

Steller's sea cow is an animal that is extinct.

Parthenium is a invasive species in our country.

Lantana is commonly known as carrot grass.

Correct Answer:

Lantana is commonly known as carrot grass.

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (4) –Lantana is commonly known as carrot grass.

Lantana (Lantana camara) is not commonly known as carrot grass. It's a highly invasive plant species known for its vibrant flowers and is often referred to as "Lantana". Carrot grass is a commonly used name for Parthenium and it is a non-endemic species .

Over-exploitation refers to the excessive and unsustainable extraction of natural resources by humans. Historically, over-exploitation has been a significant factor leading to the extinction of certain species, such as Steller's sea cow and the passenger pigeon, in the last 500 years.

Alien species invasions occur when non-native are introduced, either intentionally or unintentionally, to a new ecosystem. In some cases, these alien species become invasive and have detrimental effects on the native species and ecosystem.

e.g  the introduction of the Nile perch into Lake Victoria in east Africa resulted in the extinction of more than 200 species of cichlid fish that were unique to the lake's ecosystem. Similarly, invasive weed species like carrot grass (Parthenium), Lantana, and water hyacinth (Eichhornia) pose environmental damage and threats to native species in various regions. These invasive plants can outcompete native vegetation, disrupt ecological balance, and reduce biodiversity.

Additionally, the illegal introduction of the African catfish Clarias gariepinus for aquaculture purposes poses a threat to the indigenous catfish species in rivers, potentially leading to competition and displacement of native species.

Invasive alien species can have severe consequences for the biodiversity and ecological integrity of ecosystems, making their management and control crucial to preserve native species and maintain ecosystem balance.