NEET BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Mutualism is a type of relationship between the host and a symbiont, where both organisms benefit and no one is harmed. This relationship may either continue for longer or for shorter-term. The term mutualist is used to indicate the small partner and the host are the other partners present in the Mutualism.

Detailed explanation-2: -Aphids and ants Many aphid species are known to engage in a mutualistic relationship with ants that feed on the honeydew by ‘milking’ the aphids with their antennae. In return, some species of ants will protect the aphids from predators and parasites.

Detailed explanation-3: -The partnership between nitrogen-fixing bacteria and leguminous plants is one example. In addition, cows possess rumen bacteria that live in the digestive tract and help digest the plants the cow consumes. Associations between tree roots and certain fungi are often mutualistic (see mycorrhiza).

Detailed explanation-4: -So, to review, mutualism is where both organisms benefit, commensalism is where one benefits and the other is unaffected, and parasitism is where one benefits and the other is harmed.