Of Species Interactions Flashcards

Which term describes a relationship where one species benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed?

Answer: Commensalism

Commensalism is defined as a +/0 interaction where one organism benefits and the other experiences no significant effect.

The fig tree and fig wasp relationship is a classic example of:

Answer: Obligate mutualism

Fig trees and fig wasps are obligate mutualists because neither can reproduce without the other.

A lion killing and consuming a zebra is an example of which interaction type?

Answer: Predation

Predation involves one organism (predator) killing and consuming another (prey), as seen with lions and zebras.

In amensalism, the interaction outcome for the two species is best described as:

Answer: 0/-

Amensalism is a 0/- relationship where one species is harmed while the other is unaffected.

Which of the following best illustrates resource partitioning among competing species?

Answer: Two hawk species hunting at different times of day

Resource partitioning reduces competition by dividing resources along niche axes, such as different feeding times.

The term 'coevolution' in species interactions refers to:

Answer: Reciprocal evolutionary change between two interacting species

Coevolution describes the reciprocal evolutionary changes that occur between species in close ecological interaction.

Mycorrhizal fungi colonize plant roots and receive carbohydrates while providing the plant with minerals. This interaction is:

Answer: Facultative mutualism

Most mycorrhizal associations are facultative mutualism because many plants can survive without them, though both partners benefit.