PARTNER PRACTICE
Directions: Read each of the relationship scenarios below. Identify the two organisms involved in the boxes labeled ‘Organism 1’ and
‘Organism 2’, and identify whether they benefit, are harmed, or are neutral in the relationship If the relationship is parasitic, identify
the host and parasite as well. Lastly, classify what type of symbiosis each example is in the third column.
Example:
Organism 1
Cordyceps Fungus
(Benefits - Parasite )
1.
Symbiotic Relationship?
Organism 2
Symbiotic Relationship?
Organism 2
Symbiotic Relationship?
The Strangler Fig is a type of ‘epiphyte’ – a plant that grows on top of another plant. Found mainly in rainforest
environments, the strangler fig’s seeds are transported by birds. When a bird releases its feces on a tree, the strangler fig
seeds will germinate and grow on the bark of the tree. The strangler fig can tap into the wood of the tree to consume
nutrients and water until its own roots and leaves can develop.
Organism 1
6.
Organism 2
Tapeworms are a particular species of worm that resides in the small intestine of mammals (including humans). The
tapeworm latches on to the walls of the small intestine, and siphons (steals) nutrients from the mammal’s digestive tract.
This can cause severe nutrient deficiency, weakness, and extreme weight-loss for the mammal.
Organism 1
5.
Symbiotic Relationship?
Lichens are combinations of fungi and photosynthetic algae. The algae undergo photosynthesis to produce glucose which
the fungus needs to survive. The fungus provides a sheltered place for the algae to grow.
Organism 1
4.
Organism 2
The fungus known as "chicken of the woods" grows on trees. The fungus breaks down the tree and gets its nutrients that
way. The tree decays, gets weak, and becomes very vulnerable to extreme weather.
Organism 1
3.
Symbiotic Relationship?
Parasitism
(,)
A type of bacteria lives in the roots of plants. It helps the plant absorb nitrogen and other nutrients and the roots are moist,
which helps the bacteria grow and reproduce.
Organism 1
2.
Organism 2
Ant
(Harmed - Host )
Organism 2
Symbiotic Relationship?
Cattle Egrets are a type of small bird commonly found on farms. As cattle, horses, and other livestock graze (eat grass) on
the field, they cause movements that stir up various insects. As the insects are stirred up, the cattle egrets following the
livestock catch and feed upon them.
Organism 1
Organism 2
Symbiotic Relationship?