Which of the following exemplifies a mutualistic relationship?

BIOLOGY
SAT 2021

Which of the following exemplifies a mutualistic relationship?

  • A. Dogs and fleas
  • B. Barnacles and whales
  • C. Ospreys and fish
  • D. Bees and flowers

Correct Answer: D. Bees and flowers

Explanation

A mutualistic relationship is a type of interspecies interaction in which both of the participating organisms gain some sort of benefit. In this case, the bee benefits by receiving food from the flower in the form of nectar. The flower, in turn, is provided with a means of pollination when the bees transport pollen from flower to flower as they gather nectar. Barnacles and whales is an example of commensalism, since the barnacles benefit without either helping nor harming the whales. Dogs and fleas is and example of parasitism, since the dog is harmed while the fleas benefit. Ospreys and fish is an example of a predator-prey relationship, as the osprey hunts the fish for food. Algae and sunlight is not a viable choice for a mutualistic relationship as the sun is not an organism.



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