Question

Assertion (A): Loss of biodiversity can occur due to overexploitation of resources.
Reason (R): Introduction of Clarias gariepinus in Indian rivers has led to a decline in native Indian fishes.

• A. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
• B. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
• C. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
• D. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.

Hint:

Biodiversity loss can result from multiple factors, including overexploitation of resources and the introduction of invasive species. The introduction of Clarias gariepinus is an example of an invasive species that led to the decline of native fish populations in India.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Assertion (A): “Loss of biodiversity can occur due to overexploitation of resources.” This is true. Overexploitation of natural resources, such as overfishing, deforestation, and excessive hunting, can lead to the loss of biodiversity. When species are exploited faster than they can reproduce, their populations decline, leading to a decrease in biodiversity. Therefore, the assertion is correct.
Reason (R): “Introduction of Clarias gariepinus in Indian rivers has led to a decline in native Indian fishes.” This is also true. Clarias gariepinus, also known as the African catfish, was introduced into Indian rivers for aquaculture purposes. However, it became an invasive species and outcompeted native fish species for food and space, leading to a decline in the populations of native Indian fishes. While this is true, it does not directly explain the assertion about the overexploitation of resources leading to biodiversity loss. The introduction of an invasive species is a different factor that contributes to biodiversity loss, but it is not a direct consequence of overexploitation of resources.
Thus, both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not a direct explanation of the assertion. The correct answer is (B).