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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between commensalism and mutualism in ecological communities?
A
Commensalism and mutualism both benefit only one species, with no effect on the other.
B
Commensalism and mutualism have the same meaning and are interchangeable.
C
Mutualism benefits one species and harms the other, while commensalism benefits both.
D
Mutualism benefits both species involved, while commensalism benefits one species without affecting the other.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by defining the two ecological relationships mentioned in the problem: commensalism and mutualism. Commensalism is a relationship where one species benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed. Mutualism, on the other hand, is a relationship where both species involved benefit.
Step 2: Compare the two relationships. Note that mutualism involves a reciprocal benefit for both species, whereas commensalism involves a one-sided benefit without any impact (positive or negative) on the other species.
Step 3: Analyze the incorrect statements provided in the problem. For example, the statement 'Commensalism and mutualism both benefit only one species, with no effect on the other' is incorrect because mutualism benefits both species.
Step 4: Evaluate the statement 'Commensalism and mutualism have the same meaning and are interchangeable.' This is incorrect because the definitions and effects of these relationships are distinct.
Step 5: Confirm the correct answer: 'Mutualism benefits both species involved, while commensalism benefits one species without affecting the other.' This aligns with the definitions and characteristics of these ecological relationships.