Question

Both mistletoe and Spanish moss live in many trees in Florida. However, mistletoe is considered a partial

parasite, whereas Spanish moss is commensal. They both survive quite well, but some of the trees they live
in do not. How are some of the trees affected by these plants?
a.The trees lined with Spanish moss cannot grow under moss
b.The trees lined with Spanish moss die quickly from being root-bound
c.The trees are disadvantaged because mistletoe robs them of nutrients.
d.The trees are healthier because mistletoe provides extra nutrients to the trees​

Answer 1

The health of some trees in Florida can be negatively impacted by mistletoe due to its parasitic nature, which drains nutrients from the host tree, whereas Spanish moss is mostly harmless as it is commensal.

Step-by-step explanation:

The trees are disadvantaged because mistletoe robs them of nutrients. Mistletoe is a partial parasite which means it takes some of its sustenance from the host tree, potentially weakening it. In contrast, Spanish moss is commensal, meaning it does not significantly harm or benefit from the trees it resides upon.

It simply uses the trees as physical support. Over time, heavy infestations of mistletoe can weaken a tree's health, making it more susceptible to disease and environmental stresses. Spanish moss, on the other hand, typically does not directly harm the trees but can have an indirect effect by collecting moisture and possibly weighing down branches.

Answer 2

c.The trees are disadvantaged because mistletoe robs them of nutrients.