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Multiple Choice
Which example below is a correct statement about Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, a bacterium that lives in the human intestines?
A
The bacteria have a parasitic relationship with the human body.
B
The bacteria have a commensal relationship with the human body.
C
The bacteria directly create a network of intestinal blood vessels necessary to absorb food.
D
Many pathogenic strains of B. thetaiotaomicron have emerged.
E
The bacteria have a mutualistic relationship with the human body.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the types of symbiotic relationships: Parasitic, Commensal, and Mutualistic. Parasitic relationships harm the host, commensal relationships benefit one party without affecting the other, and mutualistic relationships benefit both parties.
Identify the role of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron in the human intestines. This bacterium helps in breaking down complex carbohydrates, aiding in digestion, which benefits the human host.
Consider the benefits to Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron. The human intestines provide a nutrient-rich environment for the bacteria to thrive, which is beneficial for the bacteria.
Evaluate the relationship: Since both the human host and the bacteria benefit from each other's presence, this relationship is mutualistic.
Conclude that the correct statement about Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron is that it has a mutualistic relationship with the human body, as both parties gain benefits from this association.