The correct option is Eichhornia crassipes.
Explanation
The term 'Terror of Bengal' refers to an invasive aquatic plant species that proliferates rapidly in stagnant water bodies. Its excessive growth leads to oxygen depletion (eutrophication) and the subsequent death of aquatic life. It was originally introduced to India for its aesthetic flowers and foliage.
Option Analysis:
- Eichhornia crassipes Eichhornia crassipes: Correct. This is the scientific name for Water Hyacinth. It is a free-floating aquatic plant native to the Amazon basin. It drains oxygen from the water, leading to the death of fishes and other aquatic organisms. Due to its aggressive growth and the ecological damage it caused in the water bodies of Bengal, it is notoriously called the 'Terror of Bengal'.
- Parthenium hysterophorus Parthenium hysterophorus: Incorrect. Commonly known as Carrot Grass, this is a terrestrial invasive weed that arrived in India as a contaminant in imported wheat. It is known for causing pollen allergies and is not an aquatic species.
- Lantana camara Lantana camara: Incorrect. This is a toxic invasive shrub species found in terrestrial ecosystems. It competes with native vegetation in forests and grazing lands but is not the aquatic weed in question.
- Lemna minor Lemna minor: Incorrect. Commonly known as Common Duckweed, this is a small, free-floating aquatic plant. While it grows on water surfaces, it is not the specific invasive species referred to as the 'Terror of Bengal'.
Key Takeaway: Eichhornia crassipes (Water Hyacinth) is the invasive aquatic weed known as the 'Terror of Bengal' due to its capacity to cause severe eutrophication and ecosystem imbalance in standing water bodies.