Question

multiple choice 1 point
in some coral reefs, a symbiotic relationship exists between pygmy seahorses and sea fans. the pygmy seahorse can wrap its tail around the branches of the sea fan. this allows the pygmy seahorse to be camouflaged within the sea fan, protecting it from predators. the pygmy seahorse does not harm or benefit the sea fan while it grips the branches with its tail.
what is the correct classification of this symbiotic relationship?
commensalism
parasitism
predator/prey
mutualism

multiple choice 1 point
some plant roots grow with mycorrhizal fungi. the fungi absorb water and minerals and pass them on to the plant and receive carbohydrates donated from the plant. this is an example of
parasitism
mutualism
commensalism
predation

Explanation:

1. In the first - case, the pygmy seahorse benefits from the sea fan (protection) while the sea fan is neither helped nor harmed. This is the definition of commensalism. In commensalism, one organism benefits and the other is unaffected.
2. In the second - case, the fungus and the plant both benefit from each other. The fungus provides water and minerals to the plant, and the plant provides carbohydrates to the fungus. This is mutualism, where both organisms in the relationship benefit.

Answer:

1. Commensalism
2. Mutualism