Concept explainers
In which type of symbiosis do both members benefit from their interaction?
- a. mutualism
- b.
parasitism - c. commensalism
- d. pathogenesis
Introduction:
Symbiosis is a process that provides a close relationship between two species where both the species share common habitat. Members that take part in symbiotic relationships are called “symbionts”.
Answer to Problem 1MC
Correct answer:
Mutualism is a type of symbiosis in which both members benefit from their interaction. Therefore, option (a) is correct.
Option (a) is given as “mutualism”.
Explanation of Solution
Justify reasons for the correct statement:
The symbiotic relationship that benefits both the members is termed as mutualism. Mutualism improves the fitness of both members. For example: Bacteria that live in the colon of human receives a moist, warm and nutrient-rich environment in which it can proliferate and human absorb vitamin precursors along with other nutrients from bacteria.
Hence, option (a) is correct.
Justify reasons for the incorrect statements:
Option (b) is given as “parasitism”.
In this relationship, one member or species get resources at the cost of a living host. Hence, it is a wrong answer.
Option (c) is given “commensalism”.
In this relationship, one member is benefitted while other remains unaffected significantly. Hence, it is a wrong answer.
Option (d) is given as “pathogenesis”.
Pathogenesis is an event in which an infection occurs in the host’s body. Hence, it is a wrong answer.
Hence, options (b), (c) and (d) are incorrect.
In mutualism, both the species are benefitted with the presence of one another.
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