SG 6

Which type of symbiosis is represented by the relationship described between the White egrets and trees?

• A. Commensalism

• B. Predation

• C. Parasitism

• D. Mutualism

Answer explanation

The relationship between White egrets and trees is an example of commensalism, where the egrets benefit from the trees for nesting and protection, while the trees are neither helped nor harmed.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-2

The symbiotic relationship between clownfish and sea anemones is an example of:

• mutualism, where both species benefit

• parasitism, where one species benefits at the expense of the other

• commensalism, where one species benefits and the other is unaffected

• competition, where both species are harmed

Answer explanation

The relationship between clownfish and sea anemones is mutualism because both species benefit. Clownfish get protection from predators, while sea anemones receive nutrients from the clownfish's waste.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-2

What type of relationship does this scenario describe? The leech is a small blood-sucking worm found in freshwater environments like ponds and lakes. Leeches use their sharp mouthparts to pierce the skin and consume the blood of their host.  A leech will attach itself to frogs, fish and even turtles

• Commensalism

• Parasitism

• Predation

• Mutualism

Answer explanation

The scenario describes parasitism, as the leech feeds on the blood of its host (frogs, fish, turtles) without providing any benefit to them, causing harm in the process.

What type of relationship is shown between the shrew and the grasshopper?

• A. Predation

• B. Competition

• C. Mutualism

• D. Parasitism

Answer explanation

The relationship between the shrew and the grasshopper is predation, as shrews are carnivorous and hunt grasshoppers for food. This clearly indicates a predator-prey dynamic, making 'A. Predation' the correct choice.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-2

Based on the information in the chart, what is the role of the shrew among this group of organisms. What type of relationship is shown between the shrew and the grasshopper?

• primary consumer

• secondary consumer

• producer

• tertiary consumer

Answer explanation

The shrew is a secondary consumer as it feeds on primary consumers like grasshoppers. The relationship between the shrew and the grasshopper is predatory, where the shrew preys on the grasshopper.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Choose the statement that accurately describes the role of one of the organisms represented in the forest food web.

• Earthworms are primary consumers of all members of the food web.

• Rabbits and plants directly provide energy for the peregrine falcon.

• Fungi are decomposers that provide nutrients to plants.

• The peregrine falcon is the only tertiary consumer represented.

Answer explanation

Fungi play a crucial role as decomposers in the forest food web, breaking down organic matter and returning essential nutrients to the soil, which supports plant growth. This makes them vital for the ecosystem's health.

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Choose a statement that best describes the relationship of organisms in this marine environment.

• Coral provides nutrients to zooplankton.

• Phytoplankton provides energy to unicorn fish and zooplankton.

• Parrotfish are consumers of phytoplankton and zooplankton

• Zooplankton prey on coral and unicornfish.

Answer explanation

Phytoplankton are primary producers in marine environments, converting sunlight into energy, which is then utilized by consumers like unicorn fish and zooplankton, making this statement the best description of their relationship.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

The predator-prey relationship graph shown below contains data compiled over a few days.  What is the best reason for the number of paramecia increasing from day 5 to day 6?

• An increasing food supply that occurs from day 5 to day 6.

   

• A decreasing yeast population from day 1 to day 2.

• A paramecium population that is equal in size to the yeast population.

• The extinction of the yeast on days 3 and 10.

Answer explanation

The increase in paramecia from day 5 to day 6 is best explained by an increasing food supply, which supports their growth. A stable or decreasing yeast population would not provide the necessary resources for paramecia to thrive.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-4

What is the best reason for the number of paramecia increasing from day 5 to day 6?

• An increasing food supply that occurs from day 5 to day 6.

• A decreasing yeast population from day 1 to day 2.

• A paramecium population that is equal in size to the yeast population.

• The extinction of the yeast on days 3 and 10.

Answer explanation

The best reason for the increase in paramecia from day 5 to day 6 is the increasing food supply. More food allows for greater reproduction, leading to a larger paramecium population.

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NGSS.MS-LS1-5

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NGSS.MS-LS2-4

An island located in a river had a large mice population. Within a year, the number of mice on the island changed from 12 mice per 25 square meters to 20 mice per 25 square meters. Which factor is most likely to have caused the change in the number of mice on the island?

• Migration of snakes to the island

• Competition among mice for food

• Precipitation decreased during that year.

• The population of owls on the island decreased.

Answer explanation

The increase in the mice population is likely due to a decrease in the population of owls, their natural predators. With fewer owls, mice would face less predation, allowing their numbers to grow.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4