Which statement is an example of mutualism?

Which statement is an example of mutualism?

• A. Pollinators and flowering plants
• B. Barnacles on whales
• C. Tapeworms and hosts
• D. Predator and prey

Answer: (A)

Mutualism is when two species interact in a way that benefits both of them. In the relationship between pollinators and flowering plants, the pollinator gets food in the form of nectar and pollen, while the plant gains help with reproduction because the pollinator transfers pollen from one flower to another. It’s a true win-win for both organisms.

Other interactions show different dynamics. Barnacles on whales exemplify commensalism: the barnacles benefit from the position and water flow, but the whale is largely unaffected. Tapeworms and their hosts illustrate parasitism: the parasite benefits at the host’s expense, often harming the host. A predator and its prey is predation: the predator gains energy by eating the prey, while the prey is harmed or killed.