Question

In reef ecosystems, corals often have microalgae living inside them. The algae supply the corals with nutrients, and the

coral give shelter to the algae. Which of the following interactions best describes the relationship between the corals and
the algae?

a. competition
b. predation
c. mutualism
d. parasitism

Answer 1

Answer: (c) mutualism

The word mutual means “the same”.
So that means that the algae and coral have a mutual relationship since they both are benefiting each other.

Answer 2

c. Mutualism

Step-by-step explanation:

Mutualism -

Mutualism is a type of ecological interactions .

It refers to the connection between two or more species , by which all the species are dependent on each other and get benefit from each other , is referred to as mutualism .

For example -

vascular plants engaged in mutualistic interactions with mycorrhizae .

Similarly in the question ,

The microalgae living inside the corals , benefits each other .

Hence , from the given information of the question ,

The correct option form the given options is -

c. Mutualism .