9/17/24 Interactions in Desert Ecosystems

What type of relationship exists between the Saguaro Cactus and the Gila Woodpecker?

• Parasitic

• Mutualistic

• Commensalistic

• Competitive

Answer explanation

The relationship between the Saguaro Cactus and the Gila Woodpecker is mutualistic. The woodpecker creates holes in the cactus for nesting, which helps the cactus by allowing it to grow and thrive, while the woodpecker gains a home.

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Which of the following best describes a mutualistic relationship?

• One organism benefits while the other is harmed.

• Both organisms benefit from the interaction.

• One organism benefits while the other is unaffected.

• Both organisms are harmed by the interaction.

Answer explanation

A mutualistic relationship is characterized by both organisms benefiting from the interaction, unlike other types of relationships where one may be harmed or unaffected. Thus, the correct choice is that both organisms benefit.

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How does the Gila Woodpecker benefit from its relationship with the Saguaro Cactus?

• It receives food from the cactus.

• It uses the cactus for nesting and protection.

• It gets water from the cactus.

• It uses the cactus to attract mates.

Answer explanation

The Gila Woodpecker benefits from the Saguaro Cactus by using it for nesting and protection. The cactus provides a safe environment for the woodpecker to raise its young and shield itself from predators.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-1

What role does the Saguaro Cactus play in the ecosystem for the Gila Woodpecker?

• Predator

• Competitor

• Habitat provider

• Food source

Answer explanation

The Saguaro Cactus provides essential habitat for the Gila Woodpecker, offering nesting sites and shelter. This relationship highlights the cactus's role as a habitat provider in the ecosystem.

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Which of the following is a pattern of interaction that can be predicted in multiple ecosystems?

• All organisms compete for the same resources.

• Some organisms form mutualistic relationships.

• Predators always outnumber prey.

• All organisms are independent of each other.

Answer explanation

Some organisms form mutualistic relationships is a common interaction across ecosystems, where different species benefit from each other, unlike the other options which are not universally applicable.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-2

What is the primary benefit for the Saguaro Cactus in its relationship with the Gila Woodpecker?

• It receives nutrients from the woodpecker.

• It gets protection from herbivores.

• It benefits from the woodpecker's waste.

• It attracts other species that help with pollination.

Answer explanation

The Saguaro Cactus benefits from the Gila Woodpecker by attracting other species that assist in pollination. The woodpecker creates holes in the cactus, which can lead to increased pollinator access.

In a mutualistic relationship, what is the expected outcome for the involved species?

• Both species are harmed.

• One species benefits, the other is harmed.

• Both species benefit.

• One species benefits, the other is unaffected.

Answer explanation

In a mutualistic relationship, both species benefit from the interaction, enhancing their survival and reproduction. This distinguishes mutualism from other relationships where one or both species may be harmed or unaffected.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-2

Which of the following is an example of a mutualistic relationship in an ecosystem?

• A lion hunting a zebra.

• A bee pollinating a flower.

• A bird nesting in a tree without affecting it.

• A fungus infecting a plant.

Answer explanation

A bee pollinating a flower is a mutualistic relationship because both species benefit: the bee gets food (nectar), and the flower gets pollinated, aiding its reproduction.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-2

What might happen to the Gila Woodpecker if the Saguaro Cactus population decreases significantly?

• The woodpecker population would increase.

• The woodpecker would find alternative nesting sites.

• The woodpecker would become extinct.

• The woodpecker would migrate to a different ecosystem.

Answer explanation

If the Saguaro Cactus population decreases, Gila Woodpeckers may adapt by finding alternative nesting sites, as they are resourceful birds. This option is more likely than extinction or migration, given their adaptability.

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How does the mutualistic relationship between the Saguaro Cactus and the Gila Woodpecker benefit other species in the ecosystem?

• It provides additional food sources.

• It creates more nesting sites for other birds.

• It increases competition for resources.

• It reduces the number of predators.

Answer explanation

The mutualistic relationship between the Saguaro Cactus and the Gila Woodpecker benefits other species by creating more nesting sites for various birds, as the woodpecker drills holes in the cactus, which can be used by other birds for nesting.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2