Question

Barnacles growing on the back of whale is an example of:

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

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Commensalism

Commensalism is a relationship which is beneficial to one organism and the other is unaffected. Barnacles growing on the back of a whale gets protection and more access to food due to its relationship with the whale, while the whale is unaffected by this relationship, therefore, this relationship is commensalism. Mutualism is a relationship where both the organisms benefit. Ammensalism is where one organism is harmed while the other is unaffected and parasitism is when one organism lives off another, this relationship is beneficial to one, and harmful to the host partner.