Question

What are mutualism, parasitism, and continuum?

Answer 1

Mutualism:

1. It is a type of ecological interaction in which the two or more interacting species are benefitted from each other.
2. It is a common type of interaction.
3. Lichen is one example in which the interacting species are fungi (dominant member) and algae/cyanobacteria. Fungi provide shelter to algae and the algae provide food to the fungi.

Parasitism:

1. It is a close relationship between the two species in which one species is a parasite that lives either inside or outside the other species (host) and is benefitted by causing the host some harm.
2. Fleas and ticks living on dogs and cats are the most common examples.

Continuum:

1. It is the long-term ecological relationship in which one species is benefitted and the other derives neither benefit nor harm.
2. A common example is barnacles growing on the back of a whale and tree frogs using plants for protection.