How are mutualism and parasitism different in terms of the effects on the interacting species?

• A. Mutualism harms both species, while parasitism benefits both species.
• B. Mutualism benefits both species, while parasitism benefits one species and harms the other.
• C. Mutualism benefits one species and has no effect on the other, while parasitism harms both species.
• D. Mutualism has no effect on either species, while parasitism benefits one species and has no effect on the other.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by defining mutualism. Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both species involved benefit from the interaction. For example, bees pollinate flowers while obtaining nectar as food.
2. Step 2: Define parasitism. Parasitism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one species (the parasite) benefits at the expense of the other species (the host), which is harmed. For example, ticks feed on the blood of mammals, causing harm to the host.
3. Step 3: Compare the effects of mutualism and parasitism on the interacting species. In mutualism, both species benefit, creating a positive-positive interaction. In parasitism, one species benefits while the other is harmed, creating a positive-negative interaction.
4. Step 4: Analyze the incorrect options provided in the problem. For example, the statement 'Mutualism harms both species, while parasitism benefits both species' is incorrect because mutualism benefits both species, and parasitism does not benefit both species.
5. Step 5: Conclude by identifying the correct answer based on the definitions and comparisons. The correct answer is: 'Mutualism benefits both species, while parasitism benefits one species and harms the other.'