Green algae grow in the fur of the South American sloth. The green algae provide camouflage for this tree-doweling mammal, and from the fur and skin of the sloth the algae obtain moisture. A moth also lives in the fur. The moth larvae provide waste material used by the algae as a fertilizer for new growth.

1-The relationship of algae,moth, and sloth would best be classified as.?

A- saprophytic. B- cannibalistic. C- parasitic.D- mimetic. E- mutualistic.

(I chose E=mutualistic)

I agree.

THANK YOU SO MUCH MS SUE!!!!

You're welcome, Lukas.

To determine the best classification for the relationship between the algae, moth, and sloth, we need to understand the different types of relationships.

A saprophytic relationship is one in which one organism feeds on dead or decaying matter. This does not apply to the scenario described since the moth and algae both rely on the sloth for their survival.

A cannibalistic relationship involves one organism consuming individuals of the same species. Again, this does not apply to the situation described.

A parasitic relationship is characterized by one organism (the parasite) benefiting at the expense of another organism (the host). While the algae benefit from the sloth, the sloth is not harmed or negatively affected by their presence. Therefore, a parasitic relationship does not accurately describe the scenario.

A mimetic relationship is one in which one organism mimics another for some advantage, often for protection or to gain access to resources. While the algae do provide camouflage for the sloth, this relationship is not primarily based on mimicry.

The most appropriate classification for the relationship between the algae, moth, and sloth is mutualistic. In a mutualistic relationship, both organisms benefit from the interaction. The algae obtain moisture and nutrients from the sloth's fur and skin, while providing camouflage for the sloth. Additionally, the moth larvae provide waste material that serves as fertilizer for the algae's growth. Thus, both the sloth and the algae benefit from this relationship.