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Multiple Choice
How is commensalism different from parasitism in ecological interactions?
A
In commensalism, both species benefit, while in parasitism, neither species benefits.
B
In commensalism, one species is harmed while the other benefits, whereas in parasitism, both species are harmed.
C
In commensalism, both species are unaffected, while in parasitism, one species benefits and the other is unaffected.
D
In commensalism, one species benefits while the other is unaffected, whereas in parasitism, one species benefits at the expense of the other.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the concept of ecological interactions, which describe how different species interact within an ecosystem.
Define commensalism: It is a type of ecological interaction where one species benefits from the relationship, while the other species is neither helped nor harmed.
Define parasitism: It is a type of ecological interaction where one species, the parasite, benefits at the expense of the other species, the host, which is harmed.
Compare the two interactions: In commensalism, the unaffected species does not experience any negative impact, whereas in parasitism, the host species is negatively impacted by the parasite.
Conclude by summarizing the key difference: Commensalism involves a neutral impact on one species, while parasitism involves a detrimental impact on one species.