Chapter 36, Problem 13PIAT

Summary Introduction

To review:

Whether the interaction between pitcher plants and diving ants is mutualistic.

Introduction:

A mutualistic relationship refers to the association where two organisms of different species work together and each of them gets benefited from the relationship. The well-being of two different species depends on their interaction as they provide benefit in one way or the other. Likewise, a unique relationship exists between the carnivorous plant Nepenthes bicalcarata (“fanged pitcher plant”) and ant species Camponotus schmitzi (“diving ant”). The ant species derive essential elements like nectar from the pitcher plants without being consumed by the carnivorous plants.