Ants are often observed with aphids, small insects that feed on plants. The ants obtain nutritious nectar from the aphids. A biologist wants to test whether ants and aphids are mutualists. She removes ants from groups of aphids and compares them to controls. Which of the following outcomes is consistent with a mutualistic relationship between ants and aphids?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If more aphids are eaten by herbivores when ants are removed, it suggests that ants protect aphids from predators, indicating a mutualistic relationship where both species benefit.

Ants Are Often Observed with Aphids, Small Insects That Feed