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Question
Distinguish between the following: Parasitism and Mutualism.
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Solution
| 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. |
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OR
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| A | B |
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