Which of the following is an example of commensalism?

• A. Clownfish living among the tentacles of sea anemones, both benefiting
• B. Barnacles attaching to the shell of a turtle without harming it
• C. Bees pollinating flowers while obtaining nectar
• D. Ticks feeding on the blood of a mammal

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of commensalism. Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed.
2. Step 2: Analyze each option provided in the problem to determine if it fits the definition of commensalism.
3. Step 3: Option 1: Clownfish living among the tentacles of sea anemones is an example of mutualism, as both organisms benefit. The clownfish gains protection, and the sea anemone may receive nutrients from the clownfish's waste.
4. Step 4: Option 3: Bees pollinating flowers while obtaining nectar is another example of mutualism, as both the bees and the flowers benefit. The bees get food (nectar), and the flowers achieve pollination.
5. Step 5: Option 4: Ticks feeding on the blood of a mammal is an example of parasitism, as the tick benefits while the mammal is harmed. The correct answer is Option 2: Barnacles attaching to the shell of a turtle without harming it, as the barnacles benefit by gaining mobility and access to food, while the turtle is unaffected.