Question

In which of the following types of population interactions, one species is benefited while another species is being harmed?
(A) Competition
(B) Parasitism
(C) Amensalism
(D) Predation
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only
• B. (B), (C) and (D) only
• C. (B) and (D) only
• D. (C) and (D) only

Hint:

Memorize the symbols for population interactions: Mutualism (+/+), Commensalism (+/0), Competition (-/-), Predation (+/-), Parasitism (+/-), Amensalism (-/0), Neutralism (0/0). This symbolic representation makes it easy to answer such questions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Concept Clarification:
The objective is to pinpoint ecological relationships characterized by a (+/-) dynamic, meaning one organism gains an advantage and the other suffers a detriment.

Step 3: In-Depth Analysis:
Examining the provided interactions:
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{(A) Competition (-/-): Both organisms experience negative impacts due to resource scarcity. } \\ \bullet & \text{(B) Parasitism (+/-): One organism (parasite) obtains sustenance from another (host), causing harm to the host.} \\ \bullet & \text{(C) Amensalism (-/0): One organism is negatively affected, while the other remains indifferent. An illustration is a canopy tree inhibiting undergrowth. } \\ \bullet & \text{(D) Predation (+/-): The hunter (predator) thrives by consuming its quarry (prey), resulting in the prey's demise.} \\ \end{array}\]Consequently, Parasitism and Predation are the interactions fitting the (+/-) criterion.

Step 4: Conclusion:
The identified interactions are exclusively (B) Parasitism and (D) Predation.