Biotic Interaction — Set 3

Correct Answer: D. Parasitoidism

The correct answer is 'Parasitoidism'. Parasitoids are organisms that eventually kill their host to complete their development. Many species of wasps lay eggs inside caterpillars that act as food for the larvae. This distinguishes them from true parasites who prefer to keep the host alive.

Correct Answer: D. Mutualism

The correct answer is 'Mutualism'. These bacteria produce Vitamin K for humans while feeding on nutrients in the gut. This is a beneficial relationship for both the human host and the bacteria. It is an example of an internal symbiotic relationship.

Correct Answer: C. (+, 0)

This notation represents commensalism where one species gains and the other has zero effect. Epiphytes and cattle egrets are standard examples of this category. It is one of the positive types of biotic interactions.

Correct Answer: D. Members of the same species

Intraspecific competition is competition for resources among individuals of the same population. It is often more intense than interspecific competition because individuals have identical requirements. This helps in regulating the population size naturally.

Correct Answer: C. Living together of different species

Symbiosis simply means 'living together' and can include various types of interactions. Over time, it has become commonly used to imply mutually beneficial relationships. In strict biological terms, it covers mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism.

Correct Answer: D. Herbivory

Herbivory is a specific form of predation where the 'prey' is a primary producer. It plays a critical role in moving energy from plants to higher trophic levels. Most plants have developed chemical defenses to deter herbivores.

Correct Answer: B. Prey population explosion

Predators control the population size of the prey species in a balanced system. Without them, the prey population grows uncontrollably and may deplete the vegetation. This is often seen in cases where top predators are removed from a habitat.

Correct Answer: B. Parasites

Because they harm the plant by taking its nutrients without immediately causing death, they are parasites. Aphids are a common example of such parasitic behavior in gardens. They are categorized as phytophagous or plant-eating parasites.

Correct Answer: B. Members of different species

This occurs when individuals of different species compete for the same resource in an ecosystem. It can lead to the evolution of different traits to reduce the overlap in resource use. This process is known as niche partitioning.

Correct Answer: A. Cuckoos

Cuckoos lay their eggs in the nests of other birds, forcing the host to raise their young. This is a form of social parasitism that saves the parasite energy. The host bird often loses its own chicks in the process.