NEST2021BiologyOrganisms and Populations
Passiflora plant produces toxic glucosides that protect its leaves from several insects. However, Heliconius caterpillars sequester these compounds for their own benefit. Thereby, it gains access to food that few insects can eat. Moreover, Passiflora leaves produce yellow spots that resemble Heliconius eggs. Heliconius butterflies avoid laying eggs on those leaves that already have eggs or yellow spots ensuring hatch
Options
- AMutualistic relationship exists between Passiflora and Heliconius caterpillars.
- BThe interaction between Passiflora and Heliconius caterpillars is commensalism.
- CAn invasive glucoside-resistant ant population will not affect Heliconius numbers.
- DThis is a typical example of co-evolution between Passiflora and Heliconius.
Correct answer
D. This is a typical example of co-evolution between Passiflora and Heliconius.
Step-by-step solution
No solution available.