Question

Barnacles growing on the back of the whale is an example for
A. Mutualism
B. Commensalism
C. Parasitism
D. Amensalism
E. Predation

Answer 1

Hint: The word ”commensalism” is derived from the word “commensal”, meaning “eating at the same table”. Barnacles growing on the back of the whale is an example of commensalism. It is a type of symbiotic relationship.

Interspecific interactions can be beneficial or harmful. The interacting species can either be benefitted or unaffected or have a negative effect. This interaction is commonly observed between whales and barnacles.

Complete step by step answer: In ecology, when individuals compete for the same resources within the species in the ecosystem then, this type of interaction is known as interspecific interactions. It is a positive type of interaction where one or two species are benefitted. The species that is benefitted is known as commensal, while, the other remains unaffected. Examples: Climbers use trees for support, Jackal follows the lion for the search of food. Barnacles are attached to the back of the whale for obtaining food and shelter. It is a common example of commensalism in which one organism is benefitted while the other is neither benefitted nor harmed. Commensalism is a beneficial and long-term relationship that has no positive or negative effect on the other.
Hence, the correct answer is option B.

Note: Amensalism is a negative type of interaction in which one is harmed, and other remains unaffected. The species that is harmed is known as amensal. Examples: Tagetes secrete toxic chemicals that affect the nematodes in the soil, and smoother crops do not allow weeds to grow nearby. Mutualism is a type of beneficial relationship in which both individuals are benefitted and none of them is capable of living separately. Example: Rhizobium; nodule forming bacterium with leguminous plants. Parasitism and predation are negative interactions in which only one organism is benefitted and the other is harmed.