Name – Harman Sodhi

Enrollment - 22000636
Course – Foundation in Biology II

Q)What is plant and plant association?

A plant association is a group of plant species that occur together in a particular
environment. The plants in an association are typically adapted to the same
environmental conditions, such as climate, soil, and topography. Plant associations can
be found all over the world, and they play an important role in ecosystem function.

Symbiotic
Relationships

Competition Mutualism Parasitism

1. Mutualism

In mutualism, both species benefit from the interaction. It's a "win-win" situation
where each species relies on the other for survival or growth. Here are some
examples:

 Clownfish and anemone : The clownfish lives among the anemone's

tentacles,gaining protection from predators. In return, the clownfish eats
parasites and scraps from the anemone, keeping it healthy.
 It is a +\+ relationship.

 Flower and pollinators: Flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees and
butterflies, who eat them and help transfer pollen between flowers, aiding in
reproduction.
 It is a +/+ relationship.

 Rhizobia bacteria and legumes: These bacteria live in the roots of legumes
like peas and beans and fix nitrogen from the air, making it available for plant
growth. In return, they receive nutrients from the plants.
 It is a +/+ relationship.
 2. Competition
In competition, both species are harmed by the interaction. They compete for
resources like food, water, sunlight, or space, hindering each other's growth and
survival. Examples include:

 Lions and leopards: Both big cats hunt similar prey in the same
territory, leading to clashes and reduced hunting success for both.
 It is a -\- relationship

 Trees and vines: Vines compete with trees for sunlight and nutrients, slowing
the tree's growth and potentially choking it if unchecked.
 It is a +\- relationship.

 Plankton competing for nutrients: Tiny marine organisms like algae and
phytoplankton compete for limited nutrients in the water, affecting their
abundance and the entire food chain.
 It is a +\- relationship.

3. Parasitism
In parasitism, one species (parasite) benefits while the other (host) is harmed. The
parasite lives on or in the host, taking nutrients and harming its health and well-being.
Examples include:

 Tapeworms in humans: Tapeworms live in the human intestine, absorbing

nutrients we eat and causing malnutrition and discomfort.
 It is a +\- relationship.

 Ticks on dogs: Ticks latch onto dogs, sucking their blood and potentially
transmitting diseases.
 It is a +\- relationship.

 Mistletoe on trees: This plant grows on tree branches, stealing water and
nutrients and weakening the tree over time.
 It is a +\- relationship.
Q)What is plant and animal association?
These refer to specific interactions between plant and animal species, ranging from
beneficial to harmful

Plant & animal

association

Mutualism Herbivory Predation

1. Herbivory
 Animals that feed on plants, such as deer, rabbits, and insects, are known as
herbivores. While herbivory can damage plants, it also plays a crucial role in
ecosystem processes.
 By consuming plant tissues, herbivores contribute to nutrient cycling, promote
plant diversity, and shape plant communities.

2. Predation
 Animals like spiders, birds, and insects prey on other animals, controlling
populations and maintaining ecological balance.
 While predation can sometimes seem cruel, it is vital for preventing any one
species from overexploiting resources and disrupting the ecosystem.
 Owls, nocturnal predators with keen eyesight and hearing, hunt small mammals
like mice in the darkness. Their silent flight and sharp talons make them
efficient hunters.
 It is a +/- relationship.

3. Mutualism
 It refers to a symbiotic relationship where both species involved benefit and
have increased fitness compared to living alone.
 These partnerships can involve exchanging resources, services, or protection,
and can be crucial for the survival and success of both species.
 Oxpeckers and rhinos: Oxpeckers feed on ticks and parasites found on rhinos,
keeping them healthy and free of pests. In return, the rhinos benefit from being
cleaned and alerted to potential predators by the oxpeckers.
 It is a +/+ relationship.