Description

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Context

Recently, the discovery of crocodile catfish in Guwahati's Bahini river has raised concerns about ecological disruptions. This invasive species preys on small fish & larvae & threatens local fish populations.

About the Crocodile Catfish

Common Names	Asian Giant River Catfish, Crocodile Goonch Catfish, Giant Devil Catfish.
Family	The Crocodile Catfish comes from this Sisoridae family, which includes other catfish species.
Scientific Name	Bagarius suchus
Size	Length: it can grow up to 1.5 meters in length.
Size	Weight: it can weigh over 50 kilograms & this makes it one of the largest freshwater catfish species in Asia.
Distribution	It is native to freshwater habitats in South & Southeast Asia.
Distribution	It is found in countries such as India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar & Thailand.
Conservation Status	IUCN Red List: it is classified as "Near Threatened."
Habitat	It usually inhabits large rivers & deep pools with slow to moderate currents.
Habitat
Appearance	It is typically dark brown or black with irregular spots on the body.


Behavior	It is a carnivorous predator & it primarily preys on other fish & aquatic organisms.
	It is known for its voracious appetite. This means it is capable of consuming prey larger than its own size.

Key Facts about the Bahini River

The river originates in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya.
It flows through Guwahati & Joins the Bharalu River at Jonali point, which flows into the Brahmaputra.
Current Status:
- It is now primarily a drainage system for city sewage & commercial waste.
- The river is highly polluted because of blocked natural flow.
- This river is described as a (dirty dustbin) with unchecked dumping of plastic & nonbiodegradable waste.

Source: Northeasttoday

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. With reference to the Crocodile Catfish and the Bahini River, consider the following statements:

The Crocodile Catfish is a native species found in freshwater habitats in South & Southeast Asia.
The Crocodile Catfish mostly preys on small fish & larvae which pose a threat to local fish populations.
The Bahini River is known for its pristine, uncontaminated waters.
The Crocodile Catfish is classified as "Endangered" on the IUCN Red List.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 3, and 4 only

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

● Statement 1 is correct: The Crocodile Catfish is native to freshwater habitats in South and Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, & Thailand.

● Statement 2 is correct: The Crocodile Catfish preys on small fish and larvae, pose a threat to local fish populations by disrupting the ecosystem.

● Statement 3 is incorrect: The Bahini River is highly polluted due to city sewage and commercial waste, not known for pristine waters.

● Statement 4 is incorrect: The Crocodile Catfish is classified as "Near Threatened" on the IUCN Red List, not "Endangered."