Question

Which one of the following population interactions is widely used in medical science for the production of antibiotics?

• A. Mutualism
• B. Amensalism
• C. Commensalism
• D. Parasitism

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Amensalism

The correct option is B.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. In Amensalism, one species involved is harmed by another species may be for its own benefit.
2. The working of antibiotics is also the same phenomenon, where by means of species (bacteria) another species (other bacteria or pathogen) is killed or harmed.
3. As per Ammensalism, the species is used as antibiotic secret acids which kill other pathogenic species.
4. Hence, it is used in medical sciences.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Mutualism refers to a type of interaction where both species in union are benefitted from one another.
2. No harm is caused to any species.
3. For example, Rumen bacteria living inside the cow's stomach help the cow digest the food and the cow provides nutrition to bacteria.

Option B:

1. Commensalism refers to a type of interaction where one species is benefitted and other species remain unaffected.
2. Example: The fish named Goby lives on the back of other sea animals and gets protection from predators by mimicking sea animals. and sea animals don't get any benefits.

Option D:

1. In Parasitism, one species is benefitted by harming other species by taking nutrients from them.
2. For example, Head lice are parasites found in human hair.
3. It gets nutrition from humans and causes infection in humans.

Final answer: Amensalism is widely used in Medical science for the production of antibiotics.