examples of parasitism, mutualism and commensalism in the mojave desert.
http://waynesword.palomar.edu/ww0902a.htm
http://helios.bto.ed.ac.uk/bto/desbiome/parasite.htm
http://wc.pima.edu/~bfiero/tucsonecology/animals/interrelationships.htm
thank you! it was a big help
You're welcome! I'm glad those resources helped you. Below are examples of parasitism, mutualism, and commensalism in the Mojave Desert:
1. Parasitism:
- Desert mistletoe (Phoradendron californicum) is a parasitic plant that attaches itself to the branches of desert trees such as mesquite. It absorbs water and nutrients from the host tree, negatively affecting its health.
- The desert botfly (Cuterebra sp.) is a parasitic insect that lays its eggs on small mammals like squirrels and rabbits. The larvae burrow into the host's skin, causing irritation and potential harm.
2. Mutualism:
- The yucca plant (Yucca schidigera) and the yucca moth (Tegeticula yuccasella) participate in mutualistic relationship. The yucca plant relies on the moth for cross-pollination, while the moth uses the yucca plant as a host for its eggs.
- The desert ironwood tree (Olneya tesota) has a mutualistic relationship with desert mistletoe (Phoradendron californicum). While mistletoe is a parasite to other trees, it acts as a mutualist to the ironwood by fixing nitrogen in the soil.
3. Commensalism:
- The desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) often shares its burrows with other animals such as the desert iguana (Dipsosaurus dorsalis). The iguana benefits from the shelter provided by the tortoise's burrow without causing harm to the tortoise.
- The kangaroo rat (Dipodomys spp.) makes burrows in the desert sand, which are later occupied by numerous passerine birds. The birds benefit from the secure nesting sites provided by the kangaroo rat's burrows.
These examples illustrate the different types of interactions between species in the Mojave Desert.