A female moth deposits her eggs and pollinates a flower at the same time, The moth larvae hatch and feed on come of the seeds developing within the flower. This symbiotic relationship is an examples of
a. parasitism
b. mutualism
c. commensalism
d. foodchainism
e. saprophytism
I think its it is either mutualism or commensalism. I I am leaning more towards mutalism
i think B but not completely sure
It definitely sounds like B. The flowers get pollenated, and the larvae have food.
You're on the right track! The relationship described, where a female moth deposits her eggs and pollinates a flower, while the moth larvae feed on some of the seeds within the flower, is an example of mutualism. Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship in which both species benefit from their interaction.
To further understand how to arrive at this answer, let's break it down:
1. Parasitism: In parasitism, one species benefits while the other is harmed. This doesn't fit the described scenario since both the moth and the flower benefit.
2. Mutualism: In mutualism, both species benefit from the interaction. In this case, the moth benefits from pollinating the flower, which ensures the transfer of pollen and the successful reproduction of the flower. Simultaneously, the flower benefits from the pollination as it increases the chances of successful seed development. Although some of the seeds are consumed by the moth larvae, it does not harm the flower significantly. Therefore, mutualism is the most appropriate term to describe this relationship.
3. Commensalism: In commensalism, one species benefits, while the other is unaffected. However, in the described scenario, the moth larvae feed on some of the seeds within the flower, which indicates that the flower is slightly affected.
4. Foodchainism and Saprophytism: Neither of these options accurately describes the relationship between the moth and the flower.
Based on the explanation, it can be determined that the correct answer is b. mutualism.