Read the following given examples:
(i) Plant - pollinator mutualism.
(ii) Lichen.
(iii) African catfish during aquaculture.
(iv) Nile perch and Cichlid fish.
Which out of these options CORRECTLY gives the example of 'Co - extinction' as a cause of biodiversity loss ?

Options

A. (i) ,(ii)
B. (ii),(iii)
C. (iii),(iv)
D. (i),(iii)

Answer

To solve the question regarding which examples correctly illustrate 'co-extinction' as a cause of biodiversity loss, we need to analyze each of the provided examples:

1. **Plant-Pollinator Mutualism**: This example involves a mutual relationship where plants rely on pollinators for reproduction, while pollinators benefit from the nectar and pollen. If either the plant or the pollinator were to go extinct, the other would likely face extinction as well due to their interdependent relationship. This is a classic example of co-extinction.

2. **Lichen**: Lichens are symbiotic associations between fungi and algae. They often have specific habitat requirements, such as growing on certain trees. If the tree species that a particular lichen depends on were to become extinct, the lichen would also likely go extinct. This is another example of co-extinction.

3. **African Catfish during Aquaculture**: This example refers to the introduction of African catfish into local ecosystems, which can lead to the decline of native fish species. However, this scenario does not represent co-extinction, as it involves the introduction of an alien species rather than the extinction of a dependent species.

4. **Nile Perch and Cichlid Fish**: Similar to the African catfish example, the introduction of Nile perch into Lake Victoria has led to the decline of native cichlid fish species. This is also a case of alien species invasion rather than co-extinction.

Based on the analysis above, the correct examples of co-extinction are:

- **(i) Plant-Pollinator Mutualism**
- **(ii) Lichen**

Thus, the answer to the question is **Option A (i and ii)**.