Which of the following is an example of mutualism in ecological communities?

• A. Barnacles attaching to whales for transportation
• B. Bees pollinating flowers while obtaining nectar
• C. A tapeworm living in the intestines of a mammal
• D. A hawk feeding on small rodents

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of mutualism: Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both species involved benefit from the interaction. This is different from other relationships like parasitism (where one organism benefits and the other is harmed) or commensalism (where one benefits and the other is unaffected).
2. Analyze the first option: 'Barnacles attaching to whales for transportation.' In this case, the barnacles benefit by gaining mobility and access to food, but the whale does not gain any benefit or harm. This is an example of commensalism, not mutualism.
3. Analyze the second option: 'Bees pollinating flowers while obtaining nectar.' Here, the bees benefit by obtaining nectar as a food source, and the flowers benefit because the bees help with pollination, which is essential for reproduction. This is a clear example of mutualism.
4. Analyze the third option: 'A tapeworm living in the intestines of a mammal.' The tapeworm benefits by absorbing nutrients from the mammal, but the mammal is harmed as it loses nutrients. This is an example of parasitism, not mutualism.
5. Analyze the fourth option: 'A hawk feeding on small rodents.' In this case, the hawk benefits by obtaining food, but the rodents are harmed as they are killed. This is an example of predation, not mutualism.