Choose if this relationship is Predation, Competition, Commensalism, Mutualism, Parasitism, Producer/Consumer
This tomato hornworm is covered with cocoons depositied by wasps. The alrvae of the waspa will feed on the worm and eventually cause its death. What type of relationship exists between the hornworm and the wasps? Is it Paratism
Paratism is when 1 organism benefits and the other is harmed
The relationship between the tomato hornworm and the wasps is an example of parasitism. In this case, the wasps benefit by laying their eggs on the hornworm, and the larvae feed on the hornworm, ultimately causing its death. This relationship fits the definition of parasitism, where one organism (the wasps) benefits at the expense of another (the hornworm).
The relationship between the tomato hornworm and the wasps can be categorized as parasitism. To identify the type of relationship, you can analyze the details of the situation using the following guidelines:
1. The tomato hornworm: This organism is the host for the wasps. It does not benefit from the presence of the cocoons; instead, it is harmed by them, as the larvae of the wasps feed on the hornworm and eventually cause its death.
2. The wasps: The presence of the cocoons indicates that the wasps benefit from the relationship. They use the hornworm as a source of food and shelter for their larvae, enabling them to reproduce and complete their life cycle successfully.
Considering these factors, it is clear that the relationship between the tomato hornworm and the wasps is parasitism. The hornworm is harmed, while the wasps benefit from the situation.