Question

An interaction where one species is harmed while the other remains unaffected (0, $-$) is:

• A. Commensalism
• B. Parasitism
• C. Amensalism
• D. Mutualism

Hint:

Ecological Interaction Summary: Mutualism → (+, +) both benefit
Commensalism → (+, 0) one benefits, other unaffected
Parasitism → (+, $-$) one benefits, other harmed
Amensalism → (0, $-$) one harmed, other unaffected

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Ecological interactions describe relationships between species in an ecosystem. These interactions are categorized based on their effects on the organisms involved.
• Amensalism (0, $-$): One species is harmed, while the other is neither benefited nor harmed.
• Commensalism (+, 0): One species benefits, the other remains unaffected.
• Parasitism (+, $-$): One species benefits while the other is harmed.
• Mutualism (+, +): Both species benefit.

Step 1: Understand the notation (0, $-$). The notation indicates:
• First organism → no effect (0)
• Second organism → harmed ($-$)

Step 2: Match with ecological interaction. This type of interaction corresponds to Amensalism, where one organism releases substances or creates conditions harmful to another without being affected itself.

Step 3: Example for clarity. A classic example is Penicillium fungus producing antibiotics that inhibit bacterial growth, while the fungus itself is unaffected. Thus, the correct answer is Amensalism.