Why are the bacteria in a termite stomach considered in UTUALISTIC and not parasitic

Answer 1

The bacteria in a termite stomach are considered mutualistic because they provide a beneficial function to the termite host. These bacteria help break down the cellulose in wood that termites eat, which the termites themselves are unable to digest on their own. In return, the bacteria receive a stable and nutrient-rich environment within the termite's gut. This mutually beneficial relationship benefits both the bacteria and the termite host, making it a form of mutualism rather than parasitism.