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Question
Which of the following is a commensalistic relationship?
Options
Plasmodium - humans
Epiphytes - trees
Human colon bacteria - humans
HIV - humans
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Solution
Epiphytes - trees
Explanation:
This is an example of a commensalistic relationship, where one organism (epiphyte) benefits by using the host tree for support without harming or benefiting the tree. Other options do not represent commensalism: Plasmodium - humans and HIV - humans are both forms of parasitism, as these organisms thrive by causing direct harm to their human hosts. Meanwhile, the relationship between human colon bacteria and humans is mutualistic, because both the bacteria (which are provided with food and a home) and the human (who receives help with digestion and vitamin production) benefit from the interaction.
