Question

multiple choice question

a nondependent form of mutualism, where both partners can survive independently outside the relationship is called ______.

amensalism
commensalism
cooperation
competition
antagonism

Explanation:

Analyze the definition of the relationship

The question asks for a "nondependent form of mutualism, where both partners can survive independently outside the relationship."

Evaluate the given options

• amensalism: An interaction where one organism is harmed or inhibited and the other is unaffected.
• commensalism: A relationship where one organism benefits and the other is unaffected.
• cooperation: A nondependent mutualistic relationship where both organisms benefit but can survive perfectly fine on their own (also known as synergism or facultative mutualism).
• competition: An interaction where organisms compete for the same limited resources, harming both.
• antagonism: An active hostility or opposition, often where one organism harms another (e.g., producing antibiotics to inhibit competitors).

Select the correct term

The term that matches a nondependent form of mutualism where both partners benefit but can survive independently is cooperation.

Answer:

• amensalism
• commensalism
• cooperation (Correct answer)
• competition
• antagonism