Question
Certain species of ibex and weevils depend on the same food source. A study finds that the removal of ibex results in an increase in the number of weevils, but the removal of weevils does not affect the ibex. Which one of the following options best describes this interaction?
The correct answer is
Amensalism
Understanding Species Interaction: Amensalism
This question examines the ecological relationship between two species, ibex and weevils, based on the effects of removing one species on the other.
Analyzing the Interaction:
- When ibex are removed, the number of weevils increases. This indicates that the presence of ibex limits the weevil population. The effect of ibex on weevils is negative (-).
- When weevils are removed, the ibex population is unaffected. This means the weevils have no significant impact (positive or negative) on the ibex. The effect of weevils on ibex is neutral (0).
The interaction pattern observed is: Ibex (-) affecting Weevils (0).
Classifying Biological Relationships
We need to match this pattern to the correct ecological term:
- Amensalism: Defined by one species being harmed (-) and the other being unaffected (0). This perfectly matches the observed interaction (-, 0).
- Commensalism: One species benefits (+), the other is unaffected (0). This does not fit.
- Mutualism: Both species benefit (+, +). This does not fit.
- Parasitism: One species benefits (+), the other is harmed (-). This does not fit.
Therefore, the relationship described is amensalism.
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