Question

"Symbiotic relationships

Paramecium bursaria is a ciliate that engulfs unicellular green algae into vacuoles within its cell. The paramecium certainly benefits from the food
synthesized (broken down) by the alga. It can be cultured apart from the alga but then must be given extra food. The alga presumably benefits from the
carbon dioxide produced by its host as well as the hosts ability to transport it to a spot where there is ample (enough) light. What type of relationship is
represented?
A)mutualism
B)parasitism
C)commensalism"

Answer 1

The symbiotic relationship between Paramecium bursaria and unicellular green algae is an example of mutualism, where both organisms benefit from the interaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The relationship between Paramecium bursaria and its green algae symbionts fits the definition of mutualism. In this symbiotic interaction, both the paramecium and the algae derive benefits from each other. The paramecium provides the algae with a safe environment and carbon dioxide, while the algae, through photosynthesis, supply the paramecium with nutrients. Similarly, coral with dinoflagellate symbionts, termed zooxanthellae, exhibit mutualism where corals gain nutrients while providing a habitat and necessary compounds for photosynthesis to the algae.

The symbiotic relationship of termites and their gut protozoa also serves as an example of mutualism. Termites can digest cellulose thanks to bacterial symbionts within their gut protozoa, benefiting all involved organisms. The Paramecium feeds on the food synthesized by the algae, while the algae benefits from the carbon dioxide produced by the Paramecium and its ability to transport it to a spot with ample light.