If neither species can live without the other, this a case of
mutualism. In contrast, in
mutualism, the interaction is beneficial, but not essential, to the survival and reproduction of either species.

Question

If neither species can live without the other, this a case of 
 mutualism. In contrast, in 
 mutualism, the interaction is beneficial, but not essential, to the survival and reproduction of either species.

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The prompt presents a two-blank statement about types of mutualism and asks you to fill in the blanks with the appropriate terms.

Option for blank 1 (the first blank): 空白1. The clue is 'If neither species can live without the other, ...' This describes a relationship where each species depends on the other for survival, which is characteristic of obligate mutualism. In obligate mutualism, the association is essential for survival or reproduction, and without the partner, at least one species cannot persist. Therefore, the correct term for blank 1 should be obligate, signaling interdependence to the point of necessity.

Option for blank 2 (the second blank): 空白2. The sentence continues 'In contrast, in mutualism, the interaction is beneficial, but not essential, to the survival and reproduction of either species.' Here the contrast is with a type where the relationship is advantageous but not required. The term that captures this non-essential benefit is facultative mutualism. In facultative mutualism, organisms benefit from the interaction but can survive and reproduce without it, unlike obligate mutualism.

Addressing potential confusion: Some students might mix up commensalism or parasitism with mutualism. It’s important to remember that mutualism specifically refers to a positive interaction that benefits both parties. The word obligate emphasizes dependence, while facultative emphasizes optional benefit. The pair obligate (blank 1) and facultative (blank 2) aligns with the standard definitions of these two mutualism types.

In short, blank 1 should be obligate because the species cannot live without each other, and blank 2 should be facultative because the interaction is beneficial but not essential for survival or reproduction of either species.

If neither species can live without the other, this a case of mutualism. In contrast, in mutualism, the interaction is beneficial, but not essential, to the survival and reproduction of either species.

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