11. Use the evidence to identify the interactions between species. Select the correct interaction for each of the examples.(5 points)

Question

mutualism predator-prey competition commensalism parasitism
Lion and Cheetah: Lions and cheetahs are both fierce hunters. They both enjoy eating a variety of other animals, such as gazelles. If the populations of smaller animals were to decrease, it would be hard for both lions and cheetahs to find enough food.

Spider Crab and Algae: Small spider crabs live in shallow ocean areas. Certain algae species live on the backs of the crabs. The algae coloration allows the crabs to blend into the ocean floor so that they are camouflaged. In return, the algae have a convenient habitat on the backs of the crabs.

Tick and Human: Certain blacklegged ticks carry Lyme disease, which can cause serious illnesses in humans. Blacklegged ticks attach to animals such as humans and feed on their blood.

Hawk and Mouse: Hawks are excellent hunters with great eyesight. They can see mice as the mice scurry in fields, and they quietly swoop down to capture the mice for their next meals.

Egret and Cattle: Some species of egrets (a type of bird) live near cattle fields. When the cattle graze, they cause insects to move out of their hiding places. The egrets use that opportunity to capture the insects for food. The cattle don't seem to notice the egrets.

Answer 1

Here are the identified interactions between the species for each example:

1. Lion and Cheetah: Competition

   • Both lions and cheetahs are predators that hunt similar prey, which leads to competition for food resources.

2. Spider Crab and Algae: Mutualism

   • The algae benefit from a habitat on the crabs, and the crabs gain camouflage, which helps them avoid predators.

3. Tick and Human: Parasitism

   • Ticks attach to humans and feed on their blood, which can cause harm to the host while benefiting the tick.

4. Hawk and Mouse: Predator-prey

   • Hawks hunt and eat mice, making this a clear predator-prey interaction.

5. Egret and Cattle: Commensalism

   • Egrets benefit by feeding on insects disturbed by cattle, while the cattle are neither helped nor harmed by the presence of egrets.