Question

Between which among the following, the relationship is not an example of commensalism?

• A. Orchid and the tree on which it grows
• B. Cattle Egret and grazing cattle
• C. Sea Anemone and Clown fish
• D. Female wasp and fig species

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To determine which option is not an example of commensalism, let's first define commensalism. Commensalism is a type of biological relationship where one organism benefits from another without affecting it. Let's analyze each option:

1. Orchid and the tree on which it grows: Orchids grow on trees to access sunlight. The tree provides a support structure for the orchid. This is a classic example of commensalism, where the orchid benefits, but the tree is not affected.
2. Cattle Egret and grazing cattle: Cattle Egrets feed on insects stirred up by grazing cattle. The cattle are not harmed or helped by the presence of the birds. Thus, this is also a case of commensalism.
3. Sea Anemone and Clown fish: Clownfish live among the tentacles of sea anemones; they are protected from predators, and their movement may help aerate the water for the anemone. Though the relationship seems mutualistic (both benefiting), traditionally, it has also been considered commensal because the primary benefit to the anemone is thought to be negligible.
4. Female wasp and fig species (Correct Answer): This relationship is an example of mutualism, not commensalism. Female wasps pollinate fig trees, laying their eggs inside the fig's flowers. The wasps benefit by having a place to lay their eggs, and the fig tree benefits by being pollinated. Therefore, both species benefit from the interaction.

Based on the above explanations, the relationship between Female wasp and fig species is not an example of commensalism but mutualism. Hence, the correct answer is Female wasp and fig species.