Which of the following best describes the relationship between a bee pollinating a flower, where the bee gains nectar and the flower is fertilized?

• A. Predation (+/-)
• B. Parasitism (+/-)
• C. Commensalism (+/0)
• D. Mutualism (+/+)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of mutualism: Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both organisms involved benefit from the interaction. This is represented as (+/+), meaning both parties gain something positive.
2. Analyze the relationship between the bee and the flower: The bee collects nectar from the flower, which serves as a food source for the bee. This is a benefit for the bee (+).
3. Consider the benefit to the flower: While the bee collects nectar, it also transfers pollen from one flower to another, aiding in the flower's fertilization and reproduction. This is a benefit for the flower (+).
4. Compare this relationship to other types of symbiosis: Predation (+/-) involves one organism benefiting while the other is harmed. Parasitism (+/-) also involves one benefiting and the other being harmed. Commensalism (+/0) involves one benefiting while the other is unaffected. None of these describe the bee-flower relationship as both benefit.
5. Conclude that the correct description of the relationship is mutualism (+/+), as both the bee and the flower gain benefits from their interaction.