When two different species live together in direct and prolonged contact, this relationship is best described as:

• A. Predation
• B. Symbiosis
• C. Competition
• D. Parasitism

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key terms in the question: 'direct and prolonged contact' refers to a close and long-term interaction between two different species.
2. Define the term 'Symbiosis': Symbiosis is a biological relationship where two different species live together in close association, which can be mutualistic (both benefit), commensalistic (one benefits, the other is unaffected), or parasitic (one benefits, the other is harmed).
3. Eliminate incorrect options: 'Predation' involves one organism hunting and consuming another, which is not a prolonged relationship. 'Competition' refers to species competing for the same resources, which does not necessarily involve direct and prolonged contact. 'Parasitism' is a type of symbiosis but is more specific, where one organism benefits at the expense of the other.
4. Recognize that 'Symbiosis' is the broad term that encompasses all types of close and prolonged interactions between species, including mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism.
5. Conclude that the best description of the relationship where two different species live together in direct and prolonged contact is 'Symbiosis'.