Which term describes a mutualistic relationship in which both species benefit?

Which term describes a mutualistic relationship in which both species benefit?

• A. Parasitism
• B. Mutualism
• C. Commensalism
• D. Predation

Answer: (B)

Mutualism is a relationship in which both species benefit from living together and often rely on one another to improve survival or reproduction. A classic example is bees and flowering plants: bees get nectar for food while flowers receive pollination, helping them reproduce. This mutual benefit sets it apart from other interactions. In parasitism, one partner benefits at the expense of the other; predation involves one organism killing and eating another; commensalism benefits one partner while the other is largely unaffected. Because both parties gain in mutualism, that term best describes the relationship.

Mutualism is a relationship in which both species benefit from living together and often rely on one another to improve survival or reproduction. A classic example is bees and flowering plants: bees get nectar for food while flowers receive pollination, helping them reproduce. This mutual benefit sets it apart from other interactions. In parasitism, one partner benefits at the expense of the other; predation involves one organism killing and eating another; commensalism benefits one partner while the other is largely unaffected. Because both parties gain in mutualism, that term best describes the relationship.