Question

An orchid plant growing on the branch of mango tree, what is the interaction between orchid and mango

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

Answer 1

The correct option is A Commensalism

Interaction between an orchid and the mango tree is commensalism because the orchid is benefitted by getting shelter from the mango tree, whereas the mango tree is neither harmed nor benefitted. An orchid growing on the branch of a mango tree is an epiphyte. Epiphytes are plants growing on other plants which, however, do not derive nutrition from them.

Parasitism is the association between two organisms in which one organism is benefitted and another organism is harmed. Presence of adhesive organs or suckers to cling on to the host.

Protocoperation is a kind of mutualism in which one species interacts with other and both are benefited.

Mutualism is a type of interaction between two living organisms in which both are equally benefited and no one is harmed. For example, lichen is a mutualistic relationship between a fungus and algae. Algae provide food to fungus obtained from photosynthesis. The fungus provides anchoring and protection to the algae.

So, the correct answer is "commensalism"