Practicing Success
Which of the following examples does not illustrate commensalism? |
Orchid and the tree on which it grows Cattle egret and grazing cattle Sea anemone and clown fish Brood parasitism in birds |
Brood parasitism in birds |
The correct answer is Option (4)- Brood parasitism in birds Commensalism refers to an interaction between species where one species benefits while the other is neither harmed nor benefited. Another example of commensalism is observed in the relationship between cattle egrets and grazing cattle. In farmed rural areas, these birds can often be seen foraging near grazing cattle. The egrets take advantage of the insects stirred up and flushed out by the cattle as they move, making it easier for the birds to find and capture their prey. The cattle, however, are not affected by the presence of the egrets. Similarly, the interaction between sea anemones and clownfish demonstrates commensalism. The clownfish find protection among the anemone's stinging tentacles, which deter potential predators. The anemone does not seem to derive any apparent benefit from hosting the clownfish. Brood parasitism in birds is a fascinating example of parasitism in which the parasitic bird lays its eggs in the nest of its host and lets the host incubate them. |