Question

An example of a non-symbiotic facultative mutualism is:

a) Mycorrhizal fungi and plants
b) Lichen
c) Oxpeckers and large mammals
d) Nitrogen-fixing bacteria and legumes

Answer 1

An example of a non-symbiotic facultative mutualism would involve organisms benefiting from each other, but not necessarily depending on one another for survival. In this case, the correct answer is Oxpeckers and large mammals.

So, the correct answer is c) Oxpeckers and large mammals.

Step-by-step explanation:

Oxpeckers, or 'tick birds', feed on ticks, blood and dander on large mammals; this is beneficial for the mammals as well, as it helps them stay free from parasites. The mammals benefit from the pest control, while oxpeckers benefit from a food source. Although these two species benefit from their association, it is not obligatory for their survival, making it a facultative mutualistic relationship.

In contrast, the other options, such as mycorrhizal fungi and plants, lichens (a partnership between fungi and photosynthetic organisms like algae), and nitrogen-fixing bacteria and legumes, involve more integrated and often obligatory mutualistic relationships.

So, the correct answer is c) Oxpeckers and large mammals.

Answer 2

The example of a non-symbiotic facultative mutualism is c) Oxpeckers and large mammals. Here, both species benefit but are not entirely dependent on each other for survival, unlike the more obligate relationships found in the other options provided.

Step-by-step explanation:

Non-Symbiotic Facultative Mutualism

An example of a non-symbiotic facultative mutualism is c) Oxpeckers and large mammals. This mutualistic relationship is not obligatory for survival, and both species can exist independently of each other. Oxpeckers feed on ticks, flies, and other parasites found on large mammals such as rhinos or buffalos. While the oxpeckers receive food, the large mammals benefit from having their parasites removed, which is beneficial but not necessary for their survival, hence 'facultative'. In contrast, mycorrhizal fungi and plants (a), lichen (b), and nitrogen-fixing bacteria and legumes (d) all form symbiotic relationships that are typically more obligate in nature for at least one of the organisms involved.

Mutualism is a type of symbiosis where both organisms involved benefit from the relationship. These relationships are sometimes essential for survival, and other times they are beneficial but not obligatory. When such relationships are not essential for survival, they are termed facultative mutualism, such as the case with oxpeckers and large mammals. Alternatively, obligate mutualism is seen in relationships such as those between mycorrhizal fungi and plants or nitrogen-fixing bacteria and legumes.