Question

In a hypothetical situation, a bacterium lives on the surface of a leaf, where it obtains nutrition from the leaf's nonliving, waxy covering while inhibiting the growth of other microbes that are plant pathogens. If this bacterium gains access to the inside of a leaf, however, it causes a fatal disease in the plant. Once the plant dies, the bacterium and its offspring decompose the plant. What is the correct sequence of ecological roles played by the bacterium in the situation described here? Use only those that apply.
1. nutrient recycler2. mutualist3. commensal4. parasite5. primary producerA) 1, 3, 4B) 2, 3, 4C) 2, 4, 1D) 1, 2, 5E) 1, 2, 3

Answer 1

Answer:

1. nutrient recycler

2. mutualist

4. parasite

Option C

Explanation:

Nutrient recycler: The bacterial decompose the dead plant and release the organic elements back to soil or air. The organic matter present in the dead plant parts is decomposed and the carbon is released into the air. Similarly, other nutrients stored in the dead plant are decomposed by the bacteria and are released into the environment so that they can enter the nutrient cycles.  

Mutualist: The bacteria living on the surface of leaf obtains nutrition from it. The plant is benefited by this association since the bacteria prevents the invasion of other pathogens in the plant. An ecological interaction wherein both the species are benefited is called mutualism.

Parasite: Once the bacteria enter the leaf, it causes disease to the plant. Here, the plant is the host while the bacteria is a parasite. The plant is harmed while bacterial obtains nutrition from the plant.