NEETZoologyOrganisms and Populations
Observe the following population interactions where ' + ' represents beneficial, ' - ' represents detrimental and ' 0 ' represents neutral effect: Interaction X: Species A ( + ) and Species B ( + ) Interaction Y: Species A ( + ) and Species B ( 0 ) Interaction Z: Species A ( + ) and Species B ( - ) Identify the correct sequence of examples that correspond to X, Y, and Z respectively.
Options
- AX - Lichens, Y - Mycorrhizae, Z - Cuscuta on hedge plant
- BX - Fig and wasp, Y - Sea anemone and clownfish, Z - Flamingoes and resident fishes
- CX - Mycorrhizae, Y - Cuscuta on hedge plant, Z - Cattle egret and grazing cattle
- DX - Lichens, Y - Orchid on a mango branch, Z - Copepods on marine fishes
Correct answer
D. X - Lichens, Y - Orchid on a mango branch, Z - Copepods on marine fishes
Step-by-step solution
The given signs represent the nature of population interactions: Interaction X ( + , + ) indicates Mutualism, where both species benefit. Interaction Y ( + , 0 ) indicates Commensalism, where one species benefits and the other is neither harmed nor benefited. Interaction Z ( + , - ) indicates Predation or Parasitism, where one species benefits at the expense of the other. Evaluating the options: Option 1 is incorrect because Mycorrhizae is an example of mutualism ( + , + ), not commensalism. Option 2 is incorrect b