Question

Explain how competition, predation, and mutualism differ in their effects on the interacting populations of two species.

Short answer

In the interaction of populations between two species in interspecific competition, both species are harmed (-/-). The predator population profits (+/-) at the expense of the prey population through predation.

Mutualism is a symbiosis that benefits both species (+/+).

Step-by-step solution

Competition between two species

The competition involves organisms vying for the same resources at the same place.The intraspecific competition pits members of the same species against one another. As a result, the species become more adaptive.

However, the interspecific competition pits individuals from different species against one another.

Predation between two species

A predator is a creature that hunts, captures, and consumes other animals.For example, a leech on humans and a tick on dogs are helpful to one species but dangerous to the other.

Clinging structures, the loss of extra organs, and the digestive system are all characteristics of parasites similar to predation.

Mutualism between two species

As a result,both creatures benefit from the connection, and no species declines, known as mutualism or symbiosis.The flower-pollinator link is one of the most well-known instances; nectar is traded for fertility.

Depending on the organism's survival demands, the relationship may endure a long or short time.