Question
Explain the difference between commensalism and mutualism types of interactions, with the help of a suitable example of each.

Answer

Commensalism: This is the interaction in which one species benefits and the other is neither harmed nor benefitted. An orchid growing as an epiphyte on a mango branch, and barnacles growing on the back of a whale benefit while neither the mango tree nor the whale derives any apparent benefit.
Mutualism: This interaction confers benefits on both the interacting species. Lichens represent an intimate mutualistic relationship between a fungus and photosynthesising algae or cyanobacteria. Similarly, the mycorrhizae are associations between fungi and the roots of higher plants. The fungi help the plant in the absorption of essential nutrients from the soil while the plant in turn provides the fungi with energy-yielding carbohydrates.

Need a full question paper?

Generate a complete, print-ready paper with questions like this in minutes — across 16+ boards, with answer keys.

Start Generating Free

Similar questions

How does a transgenic organism differ from the rest of its population? Give any two examples of such organism for human advantage.
What way the advent of the birth-control pill have resulted in an increase in STDs?
Draw a schematic labelled sketch of a scrubber and mention its use to remove pollutants.
Which one of the cell in an embryo-sac produce endosperm after double fertilisation?
Two types of aquatic organisms in a lake show specific growth patterns as shown below, in a brief period of time. The lake is adjacent to an agricultural land extensively supplied with fertilisers.

Answer the questions based on the facts given above:
  1. Name the organisms depicting the patterns A and B.
  2. State the reason for the growth pattern seen in A.
  3. Write the effects of the growth patterns seen above.
  1. Identify (A) and (B) illustrations in the following:
  1.  
  1.  
  1. Write the term given to (A) and (C) and why?
  2. Expand PCR. Mention its importance in biotechnology.
The following table shows the genotypes for ABO blood grouping and their phenotypes. Fill in the gaps left in the table.
S. No.
Genotype
Blood group
i.
$I^A I^A$
A
ii.
_________________
A
iii.
$I^BI^B$
B
iv.
________________
B
v.
$I^AI^B$
_______________
vi.
_________________
O
Write the functions of: Coleoptile.
Consult internet and find out how to make orally active protein pharmaceutical. What is the major problem to be encountered?
Ignoring our traditional knowledge can we prove costly in the area of biological patenting. Justify.