Symbiotic Relationships in the Costa Rican Rainforest

In the Costa Rican rainforest, when a large tree falls, it creates a gap in the canopy, allowing new life to compete for sunlight. However, the swollen thorn acacia tree faces no competition due to its symbiotic relationship with the acacia ant. The ants protect the tree from vines and grasshoppers, while the tree provides food and shelter for the ants. This mutualistic relationship ensures the survival and propagation of both species.

What happens when a large tree falls in the Costa Rican rainforest?

• A new tree immediately grows in its place.

• A gap of sunlight is created in the canopy.

• The forest floor becomes completely dark.

• Animals move away from the area.

How does the acacia ant protect the acacia tree from vines?

• By scaring the vines away.

• By covering the tree with a protective layer.

• By cutting the vine stems.

• By eating the vines.

What do the acacia ants do when a grasshopper tries to eat the acacia tree?

• They ignore the grasshopper.

• They call for backup from other insects.

• They bite and sting the grasshopper.

• They move to another tree.

What does the acacia tree provide to the ants in return for their protection?

• Shade and water.

• Nectar and nutrient-rich pods.

• A place to lay eggs.

• Protection from predators.

Where do the acacia ant larvae live?

• In the soil beneath the tree.

• In the tree's flowers.

• Inside the tree's hollowed-out thorns.

• On the leaves of the tree.

What eventually happens to some of the acacia ant larvae?

• They grow wings and fly to new trees.

• They become food for the tree.

• They remain larvae forever.

• They turn into different insect species.