Question

which of the following scenarios is representative of parasitism?
a. tapeworms living in a mammals intestinal tract
b. remora fish attaching themselves to sharks
c. birds feeding on insects stirred up by grazing animals
d. birds eating scraps of food from a crocodiles teeth
please select the best answer from the choices provided

Explanation:

• Option a: Tapeworms living in a mammal's intestinal tract is parasitism. The tapeworm benefits (gets food, shelter) while the mammal is harmed (nutrient loss, potential health issues).
• Option b: Remora fish attaching to sharks is commensalism. The remora gets transportation and food scraps, while the shark is neither significantly helped nor harmed.
• Option c: Birds feeding on insects stirred up by grazing animals is commensalism. The birds benefit from the insects made accessible by the grazing animals, and the grazing animals are not affected in a major positive or negative way.
• Option d: Birds eating scraps from a crocodile's teeth is mutualism. The birds get food, and the crocodile gets its teeth cleaned.

Answer:

A. Tapeworms living in a mammal’s intestinal tract