Why do you think it can be difficult for scientists to determine whether an apparent relationship between species is an example of symbiosis? Use evidence from the article to support your answer.
It can be difficult for scientists to determine whether an apparent relationship between species is an example of symbiosis because there are different types of symbiosis and it may be challenging to definitively categorize a particular relationship. The article mentions that symbiosis includes mutualism, where both species benefit, as well as other types like parasitism and commensalism, where one species benefits at the expense of the other or without affecting the other, respectively.
Additionally, symbiotic relationships can vary in the degree of dependence between the species involved. For example, the article discusses a study of corals and algae, where the relationship was previously thought to be mutualistic but was found to have a more complicated dynamic with each species having its own interests.
Furthermore, symbiotic relationships can also evolve over time, making it difficult for scientists to determine the true nature of the relationship. The article mentions that researchers have discovered that some once-considered parasitic relationships may actually be mutualistic in certain circumstances.
Overall, the complexity and variability of symbiotic relationships make it challenging for scientists to definitively determine whether an apparent relationship between species is an example of symbiosis.