Question

What is an example of a symbiotic association in aquatic ecosystems?

• A. Competition between two fish species for food
• B. Predation of plankton by a larger fish species
• C. Mutualistic relationship between corals and zooxanthellae
• D. Decomposition of organic matter by bacteria

Hint:

Coral bleaching is the disruption of this mutualistic symbiosis, where heat-stressed corals expel their zooxanthellae, demonstrating how critical this relationship is.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Symbiosis is a close, long-term biological interaction between two different species.
Mutualism is a type of symbiosis in which both participating organisms derive a benefit from the association.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The relationship between reef-building corals and single-celled dinoflagellate algae called zooxanthellae is a classic example of mutualism.
The coral provides the zooxanthellae with a protected environment, structural support, and access to metabolic waste products (such as carbon dioxide, nitrates, and phosphates) needed for photosynthesis.
In return, the zooxanthellae perform photosynthesis and provide the coral with essential nutrients (including glucose, glycerol, and amino acids) that help fuel coral growth and calcium carbonate skeleton deposition.
Competition, predation, and decomposition do not represent this type of close, mutually beneficial symbiotic partnership.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, the mutualistic relationship between corals and zooxanthellae is a key example of an aquatic symbiotic association.