Question

Why is this relationship between a plant and bacteria called a mutualism?

Answer 1

Mutualism is relationship that is beneficial to both organisms involved. The relationship between a plant and a bacterium called a mutualism because both of them help each other. Bacteria are involved in increasing the fertility of the soil by fixing atmospheric nitrogen and thus provide plant with nitrogen. In return, the bacteria make their homes in what usually become nitrogen "nodules" along plant roots. The plant gets food, the bacteria gets shelter, everybody wins.