Q. Read the following statements about ‘Terror of Bengal’
and select the correct ones.
(i) ‘Terror of Bengal’ is the name given to water hyacinth (Eichhomia), an algae.
(ii) Eichhornia was introduced in India due to its aesthetic value.
(iii) Eichhornia drains oxygen from the water which leads to death of fishes.

 1997  213 Reproduction in Organisms Report Error

Solution:

Water hyacinth or "Terror of Bengal" is an aquatic plant that is one of the most invading weeds found growing in the standing water. It is also called as "blue devil" as it takes oxygen from the water which causes the death of fishes. This plant was introduced in India for its beautiful flowers and the shape of leaves. It can propagate vegetatively at a fast rate and spread all over the water body in a short time. It is very difficult to remove it from the water body.