Read the following events and identify which of them represent the components of the 'Evil Quartet' responsible for the loss of biodiversity: A. Extinction of Steller's sea cow due to human activities B. Introduction of Nile perch into Lake Victoria C. Protection of sacred groves in Meghalaya D. Extinction of a host fish species leading to the loss of its unique parasites E. Cryopreservation of gametes of threatened

Step-by-step solution

The 'Evil Quartet' describes the four major causes of biodiversity loss: habitat loss and fragmentation, over-exploitation, alien species invasions, and co-extinctions. Statement A represents over-exploitation, as Steller's sea cow became extinct due to excessive hunting by humans. Statement B represents alien species invasion, as the introduction of the Nile perch into Lake Victoria led to the extinction of more than 200 species of native cichlid fish. Statement C represents in-situ conservation, which protects bi