Mutualism and Symbiosis in Ecology

These flashcards cover key concepts related to mutualism and symbiosis as discussed in the lecture notes on ecological relationships.

Mycorrhizae

Symbiotic fungi that absorb phosphorus and nutrients from the soil and provide them to plants.

Mutualism

A type of symbiotic relationship where both parties benefit, as seen in the interactions between ants and fungi.

Mullerian Mimicry

A case where multiple unpalatable species resemble each other, aiding in predator avoidance.

Diffuse Coevolution

A process where several species coevolve in response to each other, such as ants and their cultivated fungi.

Antibiotic Compounds

Compounds produced by bacteria that inhibit the growth of fungi, important in the ant-fungus mutualism.

Domatia

Hollow structures in plants where ants can live, providing shelter in exchange for protection from herbivores.

Acacia Trees

Trees that form mutualistic relationships with ants, providing food and living spaces in exchange for protection.

Reciprocity

A behavioral strategy where organisms provide benefits to others with the expectation of future returns.

Co-speciation

The process where host species and their symbionts undergo speciation together, resulting in parallel phylogenetic trees.

Leaf Hoppers

Insects that feed on tree sap and rely on symbiotic bacteria for essential amino acids.