Question

Why is a mutualism not considered altruistic? (Hint: Do these organisms really care about the growth, survival, and reproduction of the other partner?)

A. Because organisms involved in mutualism are inherently selfish and prioritize their own interests.
B. Because mutualistic interactions result from a desire to promote the well-being of the other partner.
C. Because mutualistic organisms do not genuinely care about the growth, survival, and reproduction of their partner.
D. Because altruism exclusively involves organisms of the same species.

Answer 1

Mutualism is not considered altruistic because both organisms benefit from their interaction, which is driven by self-interest, unlike altruism which often involves self-sacrifice with no direct benefit to the actor.

Step-by-step explanation:

A mutualism is not considered altruistic because both organisms involved in a mutualistic relationship benefit from the interaction. This contrasts with altruistic behaviors, where an individual's actions lower their own fitness while increasing the fitness of another individual. Altruism can involve acts of self-sacrifice and providing advantages to others, often within the same species, without a direct benefit to the individual performing the act.

Under mutualism, the actions of each species involved are driven by self-interest, as both are seeking benefits that improve their own survival, growth, or reproduction. There is no intention to promote the well-being or fitness of the other partner without reciprocation. Therefore, mutualism is a form of symbiosis but not altruism.