Question

Choose the correct option-

Amensalism can be represented as-

• A. Species A (+); Species B (+)
• B. Species A (–); Species B (0)
• C. Species A (–); Species B (–)
• D. Species A (+); Species B (0)

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Species A (–); Species B (0)

The correct option is B.

Explanation of correct option:

1. Amensalism refers to the association between two different organisms of different species, where one is harmed and the second remains unaffected.
2. Example- Penicillium secretes the antibiotic penicillin. This kills different bacteria.
3. It can be represented as Species A (–) and Species B (0), where species A is harmed and species B remains unaffected.

Explanation of incorrect option:

Option A:

1. Mutualism refers to the association between two different organisms where both receive positive benefits. It can be represented as Species A (+) and Species B (+).
2. Example- Relationship between zebra and oxpecker bird, where the bird eats parasites living on the zebra skin and alerts the zebra of any dangerous situation.

Option C:

1. Competition refers to the situation where two species try to acquire a resource in shortage, thus lowering the fitness of both the species in a long run. It can be represented as Species A (–) and Species B (–).
2. Example- Lion and cheetah trying to feed common prey.

Option D:

1. Parasitism refers to the relationship where one species benefits and the other one is harmed. It can be represented as Species A (+) and Species B (0).
2. Example- Tapeworms live inside the animal intestines and deprive their host of essential nutrients.

Final answer: Amensalism can be represented as Species A (–) and Species B (0).