Question

3. Classify the following interactions as mutualism, commensalism, or parasitism.

(a) A yucca moth caterpillar feeds on the yucca plant and pollinates the yucca plant.

(b) Lice feed harmlessly on the feathers of birds.

(c) A cowbird removes an egg from a robin's nest and replaces it with one of its own.

(d) An orchid plant grows on the branch of a tree. The tree remains healthy.​

Answer 1

(a) A yucca moth caterpillar feeds on the yucca plant and pollinates the yucca plant. mutualism

(b) Lice feed harmlessly on the feathers of birds. commensalism

(c) A cowbird removes an egg from a robin's nest and replaces it with one of its own. commensalism

(d) An orchid plant grows on the branch of a tree. The tree remains healthy.​ commensalism

Answer 2

A: Mutualism

B: Parasitism

C: Commensalism

D: Commensalism

Step-by-step explanation:

Mutualism is a relationship between two species of organisms in which both benefit from the association.

Commensalism is a type of relationship between two species of a plant, animal, fungus, etc., in which one lives with, on, or in another without damage to either.

Parasitism is a relation between organisms in which one lives as a parasite on another.

PART A: The yucca plant is necessary for the yucca moth larvae to live because it is their only source of sustenance. The moth pollinates the plant, and in return, the plant provides sustenance for the moth, creating a harmonious partnership.

PART B: Different types of biting lice, fleas, and louse bugs are commensals because they graze safely on avian feathers and the skin flakes shed by animals.

PART C: A female cowbird looks for other species' female birds that are busy depositing eggs in a quiet manner. After locating an appropriate host, the cowbird will break or take one (or more) eggs from the resident bird's nest while it is gone and substitute them with one (or more) of her own.

PART D:

Commensalism is the term used to describe the interaction between plants and orchids. When two species coexist, one of the species benefits while the other is unchanged.