Question

which interaction described below represents the interaction known as mutualism?
snowshoe hares in deep snow attempt to outrun lynxes which are trying to catch and eat them.
an oxpecker eats the parasites off of the back of a rhinoceros and gains nutrition and safety.
a herd of deer is eating the same crop of acorns that a group of squirrels is trying to eat.
a tick makes its home on the ear of a dog and obtains nutrition and a place to live.

Explanation:

1. Analyze Option 1: Snowshoe hares and lynxes show predation (lynx preys on hare), not mutualism.
2. Analyze Option 2: Oxpecker gets food/safety, rhino gets parasites removed. Both benefit, so mutualism.
3. Analyze Option 3: Deer and squirrels competing for acorns (competition), not mutualism.
4. Analyze Option 4: Tick benefits (food/home) while dog is harmed (parasitism), not mutualism.

Answer:

B. An oxpecker eats the parasites off of the back of a rhinoceros and gains nutrition and safety.