Healthy individuals of Paramecium bursaria contain photosynthetic algal endosymbionts of the genus Chlorella. The Chlorella provide their hosts with glucose and oxygen, and P. bursaria provides its Chlorella with protection and motility.
Which term best describes the symbiotic relationship of well-fed P. bursaria to Chlorella?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The relationship between Paramecium bursaria and Chlorella is mutualistic because both organisms benefit from the association. Chlorella provides glucose and oxygen through photosynthesis, while P. bursaria offers protection and motility to the algae.

Healthy Individuals of Paramecium Bursaria Contain Photosynthetic Algal Endosymbionts of the Genus