Chapter 5.2 Introduction

Which of the following is an example of mutualism?

• A) A lion hunting a zebra

• B) Bees pollinating flowers

• C) A cat chasing a mouse

• D) A bird eating a worm.

Answer explanation

Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship where both species benefit. Bees pollinating flowers is a prime example, as bees get food from nectar while helping flowers reproduce by spreading pollen.

In a commensal relationship, one species benefits while the other is _______.

• harmed

• unaffected

• benefited

• extinct

Answer explanation

In a commensal relationship, one species benefits while the other is unaffected. This distinguishes it from other relationships like parasitism, where one species is harmed.

Which of the following factors influence an organism's niche?

• Temperature

• Food availability

• Predators

• All of the above.

Answer explanation

An organism's niche is influenced by various factors, including temperature, food availability, and predators. All these elements interact to define the role and position of the organism within its ecosystem, making 'All of the above' the correct choice.

Fill in the blank: In a mutualistic relationship, both species benefit, whereas in a commensalistic relationship, one species benefits and the other is _______.

• Harmed

• Unaffected

• Benefited

Answer explanation

In a commensalistic relationship, one species benefits while the other is unaffected. This distinguishes it from mutualism, where both species gain advantages.

What does an organism's niche describe?

• A) Its physical appearance

• B) Its use of resources and functional role in a community

• C) Its genetic makeup

• D) Its lifespan.

Answer explanation

An organism's niche refers to its use of resources and its functional role in a community, including how it interacts with other species and its environment. This makes option B the correct choice.

Fill in the blank: A bird that catches insects is known as ______.

• A) Nectar feeder

• B) Insect catcher

• C) Scavenger

• D) Filter feeder

Answer explanation

A bird that catches insects is specifically referred to as an 'insect catcher.' This term directly describes its feeding behavior, distinguishing it from other types of birds like nectar feeders or scavengers.

What is the main disadvantage of specialists in changing environmental conditions?

• They are very adaptable

• They may not be able to adapt

• They can live in many different places

• They use a wide array of resources.

Answer explanation

Specialists are adapted to specific environments, which makes them vulnerable to changes. If conditions shift, they may not be able to adapt, leading to survival challenges, unlike generalists who can thrive in varied conditions.

Generalists are organisms that can live in a wide array of habitats. Which of the following is an example of a generalist? A) Pandas B) Rats C) Koalas D) Tigers. Fill in the blank: Generalists, like _____, are able to live in many different places and weather conditions.

• Pandas

• Rats

• Koalas

• Tigers

Answer explanation

Rats are generalists, thriving in diverse environments and adapting to various conditions, unlike pandas, koalas, and tigers, which have more specific habitat requirements.

What is intraspecific competition?

• A) Competition among members of the same species

• B) Competition among members of different species

• C) Competition between plants and animals

• D) Competition for non-living resources.

Answer explanation

Intraspecific competition refers to competition among members of the same species (Choice A). This type of competition occurs when individuals compete for resources like food, space, or mates.

Interspecific competition can result in ________.

• Mutual benefit

• Competitive Exclusion

• No interaction

• Symbiosis

Answer explanation

Interspecific competition often leads to Competitive Exclusion, where one species outcompetes another for resources, resulting in the latter's decline or extinction in that niche.