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Question #46649

Difficulty: 8/10 | 🟢 Free

The Question

Read the following statements regarding the ecological impact of the invasive alien weed Lantana camara on a native forest ecosystem:

I. It aggressively colonizes the shrub layer, causing severe niche overlap with native species. II. It promotes resource partitioning by forcing native shrubs to permanently alter their fundamental niche. III. The decline of native shrubs illustrates competitive exclusion due to intense interspecific competition for light and space. IV. It enhances the ecosystem's stratification efficiency by increasing the vertical segregation of the forest.

Which of the statements given above are INCORRECT?

Options

  • A.

    I and III

  • B.

    II and IV

  • C.

    I, II, and IV

  • D.

    II, III, and IV

Check Your Answer

Correct Answer

Step-by-Step Solution

Explanation

How the Examiner Thinks

Comparative_Analysis

Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.

Concepts Behind This Question

Optimal Foraging Theory|Detritus Food Chain Dominance|Decomposition Rate Modifiers

Why This Question Is Tricky

Common Mistakes

Conceptual Pivot: Students often confuse 'Fundamental Niche' with 'Realized Niche' (Connell's elegant field experiments) and mistakenly believe that adding a highly productive invasive species increases ecosystem stratification.

The trap lies in recognizing that invasive species cause niche overlap and competitive exclusion, actively destroying existing vertical stratification rather than integrating into it.

Quick Facts About This Question

Question Information

SubjectBiology
ChapterOrganisms and Populations - Class 12
ConceptOptimal Foraging Theory
Difficulty8
Cognitive Load5
Target Solve Time120 sec
AccessFree