Question

The case of Amazonian Water Hyacinth destroying the aquatic ecosystem in Indian freshwaters can be classified as ________.

• A. Habitat Fragmentation
• B. Co-extinction
• C. Over-exploitation
• D. Alien species invasion

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Alien species invasion

The water hyacinth was typically found in the Amazon river. In its natural habitat, there were fish that would consume them and keep their growth under check. When the water hyacinth was introduced into the Indian freshwaters, there were no predators that could keep a check on their growth. Eventually, these weeds started to grow rapidly and covered the water bodies, and thus, reduced the sunlight and oxygen available to other organisms. This is an example of alien species invasion.