Correct option is D
Categories of Species as per IUCN Red List:
(A) Endangered → (III):
An endangered species has a >20% probability of extinction within the next 20 years or 5 generations.
(B) Vulnerable → (II):
A vulnerable species has a >10% probability of extinction in 100 years.
(C) Critically Endangered → (I):
A critically endangered species has a >50% probability of extinction within 10 years or 3 generations.
(D) Exotic → (IV):
Exotic species are non-native species introduced to an ecosystem, often resulting in biological invasion.
Information Booster: 1. IUCN Red List Categories:
· Provides a global framework for categorizing species based on extinction risk.
· Categories include: Vulnerable, Endangered, and Critically Endangered.
2. Biological Invasion by Exotic Species:
· Exotic species can outcompete native species, disrupt ecosystems, and lead to biodiversity loss.
3. Importance of Conservation:
· Protecting endangered and critically endangered species is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and genetic diversity.