Which of the following fish led to the extinction of an ecologically unique assemblage of more than 200 species of cichlid fish in Lake Victoria of East Africa?
Show Hint
Invasive species like the Nile Perch can significantly disrupt ecosystems, leading to the extinction of native species.
Step 1: Understanding the question.
The question asks which fish species led to the extinction of more than 200 species of cichlid fish in Lake Victoria.
Step 2: Historical context.
The introduction of the Nile Perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria led to the rapid decline and extinction of many native cichlid species. This invasive predator outcompeted and preyed upon the native fish.
Step 3: Analysis of the options.
(A) Catla Catla: Incorrect. Catla Catla is a freshwater fish but not associated with the extinction of cichlid species in Lake Victoria.
(B) Dogfish: Incorrect. Dogfish are not native to Lake Victoria and are not responsible for the cichlid extinction.
(C) Nile Perch: Correct. The Nile Perch was introduced to Lake Victoria and caused the extinction of many cichlid species.
(D) African Catfish: Incorrect. The African Catfish is also invasive, but it was not as impactful as the Nile Perch in the extinction of cichlid species.
Step 4: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (C) Nile Perch, as its introduction caused the extinction of many cichlid species in Lake Victoria.
Final Answer: (C) Nile Perch.
