The relationship between the protistan zooxanthellae and the polyps of reef-building corals is best described as a/an:
A)facultative ectoparasitism.
B)facultative commensalism.
C)obligate endoparasitism.
D)mutualistic symbiosis.
E)obligate commensalism.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The relationship between protistan zooxanthellae and the polyps of reef-building corals is an example of mutualistic symbiosis, as both organisms benefit from the association. The zooxanthellae provide photosynthetic products to the coral, while the coral provides a protected environment and nutrients to the zooxanthellae.

The Relationship Between the Protistan Zooxanthellae and the Polyps of Reef-Building