Question

Name the plant known as the terror of Bengal? why is it called so?

Answer 1

Eichhornia crassipes is the scientific name for water hyacinth. This is considered as the terror of Bengal due to following reasons: -

1. Because it is an alien shrub that is expanding at an alarming rate on the surface of a body of water.
2. Due to reduced light and oxygen levels, it prevents the growth of fish and other aquatic species.
3. Additionally, it is displacing many native species and is in competition with them. It is an illustration of biodiversity loss brought on by the invasion of alien species. Other native species have been greatly reduced in number as a result of competition from the water hyacinth plant.