Mutualism (DONE) Flashcards
Define parasitism:
One species benefits, while other suffers
e.g. ticks on mammals
(+,-)
Define commensalism:
One species benefits, while the other is unaffected
(Rare in nature)
(+,0)
Define mutualism:
Both species benefit from the interaction
e.g. pollination, nutrient exchange
(+,+) = cooperation
Define symbiosis:
A long-term, co-evolved relationship between species, not necessarily mutualistic
(Long-term, closely-evolved)
(+,-) (+,0) (+,+)
Are mutualistic relationships always mutual?
No
Mutualisms can fluctuate between mutual benefit & parasitism depending on environmental or contextual factors
Give an example of a relationship that was thought to be mutual, but was not after being studied
Relationship between Oxpeckers and Cattle
- Oxpeckers originally thought to pick ticks (mutualistic)
- Studies show they often open wounds, consume blood & inc earwax build up (parasitism)
Is mutualism typically altruistic?
No, mutualism is not normally altruistic
Both species act in their self interest & mutual benefits are a byproduct of maximising their fitness
Do both species always benefit from every interaction in a mutualistic relationship?
No, both parties may not benefit from every interaction
e.g. a pollinator may consume nectar w/o delivering pollen
How can fitness increases in one species affect the other in mutualism?
Fitness inc in one species are often at the expense of the other, reflecting trade-offs in the relationship
Why do conflicts of interest arise in mutualistic relationships?
Conflicts of interest arise bc each species has its own goals, such as plants maximising pollen dispersal while pollinators prioritise nectar collection
How is mutualism related to reciprocal exploitation?
Mutualism can be seen as reciprocal exploitation, where both species “use” each other to maximise their own gain, even if it comes at some cost to the other
How does the Prisoner’s Dilemma relate to mutualism?
The Prisoner’s Dilemma models how cooperation in mutualism can break down if both partners prioritise self-interest, leading to potential collapse of the relationship
Are mutual relationships static?
No, mutualisms are dynamic & can shift along a spectrum from mutualism to parasitism based on environmental conditions, resource availability & evolutionary pressures
What is visitor mutualism?
Temporary interactions where one species benefits during visits
e.g. pollinators visiting flowers, frugivore-plant, pollinator-plant & cleaner fish
What is obligate/symbiotic mutualism?
A long-term, speciealised relationship where species survival depends on the interaction
e..g figs & fig wasps, mycorrhizal associations, lichens & animal endosymbiosis