Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is an example of a commensal relationship?
A
Fungi residing in plant roots and the fungi providing the plant nutrients.
B
Bacteria fixing nitrogen in the roots of some plants and the plants providing shelter for the bacteria.
C
Rancher ants that protect aphids in exchange for sugar-rich honeydew that the aphids create.
D
Cattle egrets eating insects stirred up by grazing bison in a meadow.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of a commensal relationship: In a commensal relationship, one organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed.
Analyze the first option: Fungi residing in plant roots and providing nutrients is a mutualistic relationship, as both organisms benefit.
Evaluate the second option: Bacteria fixing nitrogen and plants providing shelter is also mutualistic, as both parties gain advantages.
Consider the third option: Rancher ants and aphids have a mutualistic relationship, as both organisms benefit from the interaction.
Review the fourth option: Cattle egrets benefit by eating insects stirred up by bison, while the bison are unaffected, making this a commensal relationship.