Which combination of terms correctly refers to exotic species?
I introduced species
II. alien species
III. non-indigenous species
IV. non-native species
Choose the correct combination.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4)-I, II, III and IV
Exotic species are organisms that are introduced to an area where they do not naturally occur.
These species are referred to as introduced species (I), alien species (II), non-indigenous species (III), and non-native species (IV). All these terms describe species that are not native to the environment they inhabit but have been brought there, either intentionally or accidentally.
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.