Question

What is the relationship between egret and cattle?
(a) Commensalism
(b) Protocooperation
(c) Mutualism
(d) Parasitism

Answer 1

Hint:It is the interaction between two species let’s say A and B, in which species A benefits from the presence of species B. However, species B is neither positively nor negatively affected by this association.

Complete answer:
The cattle egret and grazing cattle in a close association is a classic example of commensalism. It is a common sight in rural areas where one can see ticks hovering over the cattle. They feed on cattle’s blood and hence are harmful to them as they can transmit several diseases. The egrets always feed close to where the cattle are grazing, As the cattle move, they stir up and flush out insects from the vegetation that might be difficult for the egrets to find and catch otherwise. In this way, cattle egrets derive some of their nutrition by feeding on these ticks and mites.
Other examples of commensalism:
- An orchid growing as an epiphyte on a mango branch, the mango tree is unaffected in this relationship.
- Similarly, barnacles growing on the back of a whale live in commensalism.
- Interaction between sea anemone that has stinging tentacles and the clownfish that live among them. The fish gets protection from predators that stay away from the stinging tentacles. The anemone does not appear to derive any benefit by hosting the clownfish.
- Pilotfish school around and follow a shark. When the shark feeds, pilotfish get lots of leftovers. The shark is neither helped nor harmed by the presence of the pilot fish.
So, the correct answer to this question is, ‘Commensalism’.

Note:
Mutualism: This interaction ensures benefits to both the participating species.
Parasitism: It is an association where one of the organisms is benefitted called the parasite while the host is harmed.