Question

Distinguish between the following: Parasitism and Mutualism.

Answer 1

	Parasitism	Mutualism
i.	In parasitism, only one species (parasite) is benefited and the interaction is detrimental to other species (host).	In mutualism, both species are benefited.
ii.	The parasite needs a host, but the host does not need the parasite.	Both species need the presence of each other.
E.g.	Cuscuta, a parasitic plant commonly found growing on hedge plants.	Lichen represents the mutualistic relationship between a fungus and photosynthetic algae or cyanobacteria.