The indigenous catfishes in Indian rivers are facing a threat of extinction because of which reason among the following options?

Question

The indigenous catfishes in Indian rivers are facing a threat of extinction because of which reason among the following options?

1. A. Coextinction
2. B. Alien species invasion (Correct answer)
3. C. Habitat loss
4. D. Over exploitation

Correct Answer

Option B — Alien species invasion

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Alien species invasion.

Key Points

• Indigenous catfishes in Indian rivers face a severe threat from alien species invasion.
• Exotic fish species (such as African catfish, suckermouth armoured catfish, and tilapia) introduced deliberately or accidentally into Indian rivers outcompete native fish for food and breeding space, carry diseases to which native fish have no immunity, and sometimes directly prey on them.
• This alien species invasion is listed as one of the major threats to freshwater biodiversity in India.