General Science question from Sub Inspector exam, 2022 by JKSSB
The indigenous catfishes in Indian rivers are facing a threat of extinction because of which reason among the following options?
Last updated Jun 24, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option B —
Alien species invasion
Why is this happening?
While habitat loss and over-exploitation are general threats to all wildlife, the specific "extinction threat" cited in environmental science for Indian catfish is the invasive species problem:
Aggressive Competition: The African catfish grows much faster and larger than native species, outcompeting them for food and space.
Predation: It is a highly predatory fish that eats the eggs and fry (young) of indigenous fish.
Disease: Alien species often carry pathogens or parasites to which local fish have no natural immunity.
Illegal Farming: Despite a ban by the Indian government, it is often farmed illegally because of its high yield, eventually escaping into natural river systems during floods.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
