How are commensalism and mutualism alike in ecological communities?

• A. Both involve at least one species benefiting from the interaction.
• B. Both require that neither species is affected by the interaction.
• C. Both are examples of competition for resources.
• D. Both result in harm to one of the species involved.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions of commensalism and mutualism: Commensalism is a type of ecological interaction where one species benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed. Mutualism is an interaction where both species benefit from the relationship.
2. Analyze the options provided in the question. Focus on the key characteristics of commensalism and mutualism to determine which statements align with their definitions.
3. Option 1 states that 'Both involve at least one species benefiting from the interaction.' This aligns with the definitions of both commensalism and mutualism, as at least one species benefits in both cases.
4. Option 2 states that 'Both require that neither species is affected by the interaction.' This is incorrect because mutualism involves both species benefiting, not being unaffected.
5. Option 3 and Option 4 describe competition and harm, which are not characteristics of commensalism or mutualism. Eliminate these options as they do not match the definitions of the interactions.