Question

which type of symbiotic relationship is described in the following scenario?
termites are unable to digest some plant materials (fiber). termite stomachs contain bacteria that digest the fiber to useful for the termites. in turn, the bacteria are provided with a hospitable environment to carry out their life processes.
○ commensalism
○ mutualism
○ parasitism
○ competition

Explanation:

To determine the symbolic relationship, we analyze each option:

• Commensalism: One organism benefits, the other is unaffected. In this scenario, both termites and bacteria benefit (termites get fiber digested, bacteria get a hospitable environment), so this is not commensalism.
• Mutualism: Both organisms benefit from the relationship. Termites benefit as bacteria digest fiber for them, and bacteria benefit as they get a hospitable environment. This matches mutualism.
• Parasitism: One organism benefits at the expense of the other (the host is harmed). Here, neither termites nor bacteria are harmed; both benefit, so this is not parasitism.
• Competition: Organisms compete for the same resource. This scenario involves a beneficial relationship for both, not competition.

Answer:

B. mutualism