Define symbiosis:
Symbiosis is a close and long-term biological interaction between two different species, where both organisms benefit from the relationship. This mutualistic relationship can involve a variety of interactions, such as mutualism (both species benefit), commensalism (one species benefits while the other is unaffected), or parasitism (one species benefits at the expense of the other).
Describe the mutualistic relationship between ants and
the acacia tree.
Ants and acacia trees have a mutualistic relationship in which both species benefit from their interaction. The acacia tree provides shelter and food for the ants in the form of specialized structures called extrafloral nectaries, which produce a sugary substance that the ants feed on. In return, the ants provide protection for the acacia tree by defending it against herbivores, competing plants, and other potential threats.
The ants also clear away debris from around the tree, helping to prevent the growth of mold or fungi that could potentially harm the tree. Additionally, the ants may attack and remove any other insects or animals that try to feed on the acacia tree's leaves or sap. This mutualistic relationship benefits both the ants and the acacia tree, as they each depend on the other for survival and growth.
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Ants protect the acacia tree by defending it against herbivores and other threats, while the tree provides the ants with food and shelter. This mutualistic relationship benefits both species.
Explain the relationship between the Dewdrop spider and the much larger Nephila spider.
The Dewdrop spider and the larger Nephila spider have a commensalistic relationship, where one species benefits without harming or benefiting the other. The Dewdrop spider often builds its web close to the web of the Nephila spider, taking advantage of the larger spider's prey capture abilities.
The Dewdrop spider feeds on the leftovers of the Nephila spider's prey, such as small insects that get trapped in the Nephila spider's web or pieces of prey that the Nephila spider does not fully consume. In this way, the Dewdrop spider benefits from the Nephila spider's hunting efforts without negatively impacting the larger spider. The Nephila spider is not harmed by the presence of the Dewdrop spider, but it also does not receive any direct benefit from the relationship.