Question

Exotic species introduced in India are
A. Lantana camara, Water hyacinth
B. Water hyacinth, Prosopis cineraria
C. Nile perch, Ficus religiosa
D. Ficus religiosa, Lantana camara

Answer 1

Hint: Species that are non-native and occur in areas outside of their natural geographic region are termed as exotic species. It occurs due to an accidental and intentional event. Water hyacinth is found in South America commonly known as Eichhornia crassipes which was firstly introduced by Egypt. It’s a kind of shape of leaves and beautiful flowers have considered them as the ornamental plants of India.

Complete answer: Lantana camara is a flowering plant found in the tropical regions of America within the family known as verbena. It is a small perennial shrub that grows to a height of about 2 metres. Some of its common Indian names are Gu phool (Assam), Shillong-langsam (Mizoram), Pulikampa (Andhra Pradesh), Tantani (Maharashtra), etc. The water hyacinth plant is a free-floating aquatic macrocytic plant found in South America. It grows to a height of about 30-150 centimetres. It has thick glossy ovate leaves which may rise above the surface of the water. The invasive feature and impact of the water hyacinth compete with the native vegetation which helps them to change drastically with the ecosystem. Some of its common Indian names are Bengal terror, the blue devil, noxious species, etc.
Therefore the correct option is (A).

Note: Lantana camera stalks have been used in the construction of wooden furniture especially chairs and tables. It also displays antimicrobial and antifungal properties. On the other hand, Water hyacinth is used for making furniture, baskets, ropes, etc. It is also used as a tonic in some parts of Malaysia to treat certain skin diseases of horses.