Question 42

The interaction between the plant and the fungus is an example of mutualism.

Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship in which both organisms benefit from the interaction. In this case, the plant provides carbohydrates to the fungus, while the fungus enhances the plant's nutrient absorption.

A) Mutualism

This option is correct because mutualism describes a relationship where both species involved gain benefits. In the interaction between the plant and the fungus, the plant supplies organic compounds to the fungus, while the fungus aids in water and mineral absorption for the plant, demonstrating a symbiotic benefit.

B) Parasitism

Parasitism is an interaction where one organism benefits at the expense of another. In this case, the plant does not suffer detriment from the fungus; instead, both parties thrive, which rules out this option.

C) Commensalism

Commensalism involves one organism benefiting while the other is neither helped nor harmed. This is not applicable here, as both the plant and fungus derive advantages from their relationship, indicating that this option is incorrect.

D) Predation

Predation refers to an interaction where one organism hunts and consumes another. This is clearly not the case with the plant-fungus interaction, as there is no hunting or consumption involved, making this option invalid.

Conclusion

Mutualism is the only accurate description of the relationship between the plant and the fungus, as both organisms benefit from the interaction. All other options fail to represent the nature of this symbiotic relationship, highlighting the importance of mutual benefits in ecological interactions.