Mutualism – Class 12 | Chapter – 13| Biology Short Notes Series PDF

Mutualism: It is a type of symbiotic relationship in which both species involved benefit from their interaction. This interaction can be seen in a variety of biological systems, such as pollination, where the plant provides nectar to the pollinator and the pollinator helps to spread the plant’s pollen. Another example is the relationship between certain species of ants and plants, where the ants protect the plants and are provided with food in return.

Types of Mutualism

There are several types of mutualism, including:

  • Trophic mutualism: Involves the exchange of food or nutrients between species. An example of this is the relationship between clownfish and sea anemones.
  • Protective mutualism: Involves one species providing protection to the other. An example of this is the relationship between ants and certain plants.
  • Service-provider mutualism: Involves one species providing a service to the other. An example of this is the relationship between bees and flowers, where the bee pollinates the flower in exchange for nectar.
  • Dispensary mutualism: Involves one species providing a refuge or home to the other. An example of this is the relationship between hermit crabs and sea anemones, where the crab provides mobility for the anemone and the anemone provides protection for the crab.
  • Facultative mutualism: Involves species that may or may not interact, but both benefit from the interaction when it occurs. An example of this is the relationship between plants and birds, where the birds may eat the fruit and help to spread the seeds.

Examples of Mutualism

Some examples of mutualism are:

  • Bees and flowers: Bees gather nectar from flowers and in the process transfer pollen, leading to fertilization and the production of seeds. Flowers provide nectar as a reward to the bees, while the bees help to ensure the plant’s reproduction.
  • Clownfish and sea anemones: Clownfish live amongst the tentacles of sea anemones and are protected from predators. In return, the clownfish provide food to the anemones by bringing them small bits of leftovers from their meals.
  • Termites and gut microbes: Termites have a symbiotic relationship with microbes in their gut that help to break down the cellulose in the wood they eat. In return, the termites provide the microbes with a home and a source of food.
  • Rhizobia bacteria and legume plants: Rhizobia bacteria form a symbiotic relationship with legume plants by fixing nitrogen from the air into a form that can be used by the plant. The plant provides the bacteria with a source of energy in the form of sugars.
  • Lichens: Lichens are a symbiotic association between fungi and algae or cyanobacteria. The fungi provide a structure for the algae or cyanobacteria to grow on, while the algae or cyanobacteria provide food for the fungi through photosynthesis.

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By Team Learning Mantras