17. At least six types of mutualism have been recognized in nature: Those that ______

a. Deter Predation: One example of mutualism that deters predation is the relationship between clownfish and sea anemones. The clownfish lives among the tentacles of the anemone, and the anemone provides the clownfish with protection from predators. In return, the clownfish helps to keep the anemone clean by eating parasites and other debris.

b. Increase Availability of Prey or Resources: An example of mutualism that increases the availability of prey or resources is the relationship between the acacia tree and the ant species Crematogaster. The ants live in the hollow thorns of the acacia tree and feed on the nectar produced by the tree. In return, the ants protect the tree from herbivores by attacking any animals that try to eat the leaves.

c. Feed on, or Compete with a Predator: An example of mutualism that feeds on, or competes with a predator is the relationship between the cleaner wrasse and the larger fish species. The cleaner wrasse feeds on the parasites and dead skin of the larger fish, while the larger fish provides the cleaner wrasse with protection from predators.

d. Increase the Competitiveness of One Partner in the Mutualism with Other Species Outside the Mutualism: An example of mutualism that increases the competitiveness of one partner in the mutualism with other species outside the mutualism is the relationship between the yucca plant and the yucca moth. The moth pollinates the yucca plant, while the yucca plant provides the moth with a food source. This mutualism increases the competitiveness of the yucca plant with other species outside the mutualism, as the yucca plant is able to reproduce more efficiently due to the pollination provided by the moth.

e. Decrease the Vigor of a Competitor: An example of mutualism that decreases the vigor of a competitor is the relationship between the fig tree and the fig wasp. The fig wasp pollinates the fig tree, while the fig tree provides the wasp with a food source. This mutualism decreases the vigor of competitors of the fig tree, as the fig tree is able to reproduce more efficiently due to the pollination provided by the wasp.

f. Feed on or Compete with a Competitor: An example of mutualism that feeds on or competes with a competitor is the relationship between the oxpecker and the large mammal species. The oxpecker feeds on the parasites and dead skin of the large mammal, while the large mammal provides the oxpecker with protection from predators. This mutualism allows the oxpecker to compete with other species for food, as the oxpecker is able to feed on the parasites and dead skin of the large mammal.