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Q7(d):
Define the following term and give one example for it: Mutualism
Solution :
Definition: Mutualism
Mutualism is a type of symbiotic interaction between two biological species where both organisms involved derive a fitness benefit, typically in the form of food, protection, shelter, or pollination, from the association. This interaction is categorized as a $(+, +)$ relationship [Per the Lotka-Volterra model of interspecific competition and symbiosis]. In many obligate mutualistic relationships, the survival of the individual species is entirely dependent upon the presence of the other.
Biological Mechanism
The evolutionary driver behind mutualism is the reciprocal improvement of survival and reproductive success for both partners. Unlike commensalism $(+, 0)$ or parasitism $(+, -)$, mutualism involves a balanced exchange where the metabolic or structural costs to one organism are offset by the benefits provided by the partner [Per the Theory of Reciprocal Altruism and Resource Exchange].
Example: The Association between Mycorrhizae and Higher Plants
Mycorrhizae represent a classic example of mutualism between fungi and the roots of higher plants.
- The Fungal Role: The fungi (e.g., members of the genus Glomus) colonize the plant root system and extend their hyphae into the soil, significantly increasing the surface area for the absorption of mineral nutrients, specifically phosphorus and water, which the plant then utilizes. [Per the principle of increased resource uptake efficiency].
- The Plant Role: In return, the plant provides the fungi with carbohydrates (sugars), which are the products of photosynthesis, ensuring a constant energy supply for the fungal metabolic processes.
Visual Representation of Mutualism (Mycorrhizal Interaction)
Analytical Summary
| Interaction Type | Species A | Species B | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mutualism | (+) Enhanced nutrient uptake | (+) Carbohydrate acquisition | Symbiotic Stability |
Final Solution: Mutualism is a $(+, +)$ interspecific interaction where both interacting species benefit. An exemplary case is the mycorrhizal association between fungi and plant roots, wherein fungi facilitate mineral uptake for the plant while the plant provides essential photosynthetic sugars to the fungi.
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(b): Define the following term and give one example for it: 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(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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