Friday, December 10, 2010

What is the relationship between vampire bats and horses: mutualism, commensalism, or parasitism?

Mutualism


In a mutualistic relationship, both species benefit from the relationship. 


Example: Bees and pollinating flowers - The bees benefit by gaining nectar from the flowers. The flower benefits by using the bee to carry its pollen to other flowers. 


Commensalism


In a commensalistic relationship, one species benefits from the relationship, while the other species is not positively or negatively affected.


Example: An example is the relationship that exists between cattle egrets and cattle. The cattle are not effected by the egrets, and the egrets get to eat insects that hang around the cattle. 


Parasitism


In a parasitic relationship, one species benefits while the other species is harmed.


Example: Ticks and dogs - The tick benefits from the dog's blood, while causing harm to the dog.


Vampire Bats and Horses


Vampire bats feed on the blood of horses and other mammals. This relationship benefits the vampire bats while causing harm to the horses. Therefore, the relationship between vampire bats and horses is an example of parasitism.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Thomas Jefferson's election in 1800 is sometimes called the Revolution of 1800. Why could it be described in this way?

Thomas Jefferson’s election in 1800 can be called the “Revolution of 1800” because it was the first time in America’s short history that pow...