Hummingbirds transport pollen from flower to flower, providing an essential pollination service, while benefiting energetically from the flower nectar.Along with pollen, hummingbirds also transport mites.These tiny invertebrates crawl onto a hummingbird's beak to hitch a ride from one flower to the next.The tiny mites exert no significant impact on the hummingbirds.The hummingbird-flower interaction is _______; the hummingbird-mite interaction is _______.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The hummingbird-flower interaction is a mutualism, as both parties benefit from the interaction. Hummingbirds obtain nectar for energy while transporting pollen, which allows the plant to reproduce. The hummingbird-mite interaction is commensalism, as the mites benefit from hitching a ride on the hummingbird without harming or benefiting the hummingbird.

Hummingbirds Transport Pollen from Flower to Flower, Providing an Essential