Choose the correct matching. '+' for beneficial interaction'-' for detrimental and 'O' for neutral interaction.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A)-(II), (B)-(IV), (C)-(I), (D)-(III)

The correct answer is Option (3) → (A)-(II), (B)-(IV), (C)-(I), (D)-(III)

A. Mutualism is an interaction that benefits both species involved. One example of mutualism is the symbiotic relationship between lichens .Lichens consist of a fungus and photosynthetic algae, and they rely on each other for survival. The fungus provides a protected environment and absorbs water and nutrients, while the photosynthetic partner conducts photosynthesis and produces energy-rich carbohydrates that benefit both organisms.Another example is mycorrhizae, where fungi form associations with the roots of higher plants.

B. Predation is a natural process that involves one organism (the predator) capturing, killing, and consuming another organism (the prey) for food. It is an essential mechanism for transferring energy from lower trophic levels to higher trophic levels in ecological food chains. Predators play a crucial role in regulating prey populations, maintaining the balance of ecosystems, and promoting biodiversity. Predation is a natural process that occurs in all ecosystems. It is a way for energy to be transferred from one trophic level to another. The predator benefits from the interaction, while the prey is harmed or killed.

C. Competition is best defined as a process in which the fitness of one species (measured in terms of its ‘r’ the intrinsic rate of increase) is significantly lower in the presence of another species. The Abingdon tortoise in Galapagos Islands became extinct within a decade after goats were introduced on the island, apparently due to the greater browsing efficiency of the goats.

D. In amensalism, one species is harmed whereas the other is unaffected.