Answer :
Answer and Explanation: This question seems to be revolving around the concepts of symbiotic relationships in natural world. Symbiotic relationships are relationships between two different species that result in benefits, consequences, or have no effect at all on the fitness of the species within the relationship. Depending on the nature of the relationship, symbiotic relationships are classified into 4 possible categories.
4 Types of Symbiotic Relationships
- Mutualism - A relationship between two organisms where both species benefit from the relationship. An example would be the relationship between cleaner wrasse and sharks. Cleaner wrasse remove parasites from sharks, receiving a free meal in the process. The sharks meanwhile, are healthier due to parasite removal.
- Commensalism - A relationship between two organisms where one organism benefits and the other is unaffected. The orchids and tropical trees in the question are an example of this. The orchids use the location of the trees to better access nutrients and sunlight, but the trees themselves are unaffected since the orchids get their own resources rather than stealing them from the trees.
- Parasitism - A relationship between two organisms where one benefits and the other is actively harmed. The strangler figs and trees in the question are an example of this. The strangler figs are stealing nutrients from the trees, benefiting themselves while robbing the tree of nutrients it needs to grow.
- Competition - A relationship where two species compete over the same resources, resulting in both organisms being harmed in this relationship. An example of this would be the relationship between hyenas and lions. Both species compete for some of the same prey, resulting in them often getting into conflicts with each other.
