Which of the following is an example of a parasitic relationship?

• A. Clownfish living among sea anemone tentacles
• B. A tapeworm living in the intestines of a mammal
• C. Bees pollinating flowers
• D. Two lions competing for territory

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of parasitism. Parasitism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism (the parasite) benefits at the expense of the other organism (the host). The parasite relies on the host for resources, often causing harm to the host.
2. Step 2: Analyze the first option: 'Clownfish living among sea anemone tentacles.' This is an example of mutualism, not parasitism, because both organisms benefit. The clownfish gains protection from predators, and the sea anemone may receive nutrients from the clownfish's waste.
3. Step 3: Analyze the second option: 'A tapeworm living in the intestines of a mammal.' This is an example of parasitism because the tapeworm benefits by absorbing nutrients from the host's intestines, while the host is harmed by losing nutrients and potentially suffering health issues.
4. Step 4: Analyze the third option: 'Bees pollinating flowers.' This is another example of mutualism, as bees benefit by collecting nectar for food, and flowers benefit by being pollinated, which aids in reproduction.
5. Step 5: Analyze the fourth option: 'Two lions competing for territory.' This is an example of competition, not parasitism, as both lions are vying for the same resource (territory) without one directly benefiting at the expense of the other.