Question

bacteria that live in the digestive systems of cows help break down the plants that cows eat, providing nutrients to cows. the digestive systems of cows offer a safe environment which the bacteria can live and reproduce. which type of relationship exists between the bacteria and the cows?
a commensalism
b mutualism
c parasitism
d predation

Explanation:

• Commensalism: One organism benefits, the other is neither helped nor harmed. But here both benefit.
• Mutualism: Both organisms benefit. Bacteria get a home (cow's digestive system) and cows get nutrients (from bacteria breaking down plants).
• Parasitism: One benefits (parasite), the other is harmed (host). Not the case here.
• Predation: One organism (predator) kills and eats another (prey). Not relevant.

Answer:

B. mutualism