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Q7(b):
Define the following term and give one example for it: Parasitism
Solution :
1. Definition of Parasitism
Parasitism is a specialized type of interspecific interaction in which one organism, known as the parasite, derives nutritional requirements and/or shelter from another living organism, known as the host. In this biological association, the parasite is benefitted ($+$), while the host is harmed ($-$). [Per the Lotka-Volterra model of interspecific competition and symbiosis].
2. Core Theoretical Characteristics
- Host-Dependency: The parasite is physiologically dependent on the host for metabolic sustenance.
- Fitness Cost: The interaction reduces the fitness of the host by diverting energy/resources toward the parasite, potentially leading to reduced survival or reproductive success.
- Specificity: Many parasites exhibit high host-specificity, having evolved complex life cycles to circumvent host immune responses.
- Adaptations: Evolution has favored the development of specialized attachment structures (suckers, hooks), loss of unnecessary sensory/digestive organs, and high reproductive capacities in parasites.
3. Exemplification
A classic example of parasitism is the relationship between the human liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica) and its hosts. Alternatively, consider the interaction between Cuscuta (Dodder) and its host plant.
4. Analytical Justification
In the case of Cuscuta:
- The Cuscuta lacks chlorophyll and cannot perform photosynthesis.
- It produces specialized root-like structures called haustoria that penetrate the host plant's vascular tissue (phloem).
- It draws essential nutrients and water directly from the host, thereby hindering the host's growth. [Biological Principle: Obligate Parasitism].
5. Tabular Summary of Interaction
| Participant | Effect | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Parasite | (+) | Resource acquisition (Nutrients/Energy) |
| Host | ($-$) | Resource depletion/Pathology |
Final Solution: Parasitism is an interspecific interaction wherein one species (the parasite) benefits at the expense of the other (the host). Example: The plant Cuscuta, which acts as a parasitic vine obtaining nutrition from host plants via haustoria.
More Questions from Class 12 Biology Organisms and Populations EXERCISES
- Q1: List the attributes that populations possess but not individuals.
- Q1: List the attributes that populations possess but not individuals.
- Q2: If a population growing exponentially double in size in 3 years, what is the intrinsic rate of increase (\(r\)) of the population?
- Q2: If a population growing exponentially double in size in 3 years, what is the intrinsic rate of increase ((r)) of the population?
- Q3: Name important defence mechanisms in plants against herbivory.
- Q3: Name important defence mechanisms in plants against herbivory.
- Q4: An orchid plant is growing on the branch of mango tree. How do you describe this interaction between the orchid and the mango tree?
- Q4: An orchid plant is growing on the branch of mango tree. How do you describe this interaction between the orchid and the mango tree?
- Q5: What is the ecological principle behind the biological control method of managing with pest insects?
- Q5: What is the ecological principle behind the biological control method of managing with pest insects?
- Q6: Define population and community.
- Q6: Define population and community.
- Q7(a): Define the following terms and give one example for each: (a) Commensalism
- Q7(a): Define the following term and give one example for it: Commensalism
- Q7(b): Define the following terms and give one example for each: (b) Parasitism
- Q7(c): Define the following terms and give one example for each: (c) Camouflage
- Q7(c): Define the following term and give one example for it: Camouflage
- Q7(d): Define the following terms and give one example for each: (d) Mutualism
- Q7(d): Define the following term and give one example for it: Mutualism
- Q7(e): Define the following terms and give one example for each: (e) Interspecific competition
- Q7(e): Define the following term and give one example for it: Interspecific competition
- Q8: With the help of suitable diagram describe the logistic population growth curve.
- Q8: With the help of suitable diagram describe the logistic population growth curve.
- Q9: Select the statement which explains best parasitism.
- Q9: Select the statement which explains best parasitism.
- Q10: List any three important characteristics of a population and explain.
- Q10: List any three important characteristics of a population and explain.
CBSE Solutions for Class 12 Biology Organisms and Populations
Chapters in CBSE - Class 12 Biology
- Reproduction in Organisms
- Human Reproduction
- Reproductive Health
- Principles of Inheritance and Variation
- Molecular Basis of Inheritance
- Evolution
- Human Health and Disease
- Strategies for Enhancement in Food Production
- Microbes in Human Welfare
- Biotechnology: Principles and Processes
- Biotechnology and Its Applications
- Ecosystem
- Biodiversity and Conservation
- Environmental Issues
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