Question

Explain mutualism with examples.

Answer 1

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.

Mycorrhizae is a mutualism between fungi and the roots of higher plants. In this, the fungi help the plant in the absorption of essential nutrients from the soil. In return, the plant provides food to the fungi.