Question

Tabulate and analysis of two species population interaction.

Answer 1

MUTUALISM (+, +): It is the type of interaction where both species benefit from the interaction. Mutualism may be facultative when the species involved are capable of existence independent of one another, or obligate, when the relationship is imperative of the existence of one or both species.

Examples: i. Certain bacteria in the caeca and intestine of herbivores aid in the digestion of cellulose. ii. The cross pollination of flowers by insects and birds seeking nectar and pollen which is of great importance in agriculture.

COMMENSALISM (+, 0): The concept of commensalism has been broadened in recent years, to apply to coactions other than those centering on food such as cover, support, production, and locomotion.

Examples: i. Barnacles attached to Whales travel thousands of miles collecting and filtering food from the moving water.The whales are not affected by the barnacles. ii. Egrets usually are present near cattle. they catch insects which are disturbed by the cattle.