Which of the following is not an example of commensalism ?

Options

A. Orchid on mango branch
B. Cuckoo and crow
C. Egret and grazing cattle
D. Sea anemone and clown fish

Answer

To determine which of the following options is not an example of commensalism, we first need to understand what commensalism is. Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship between two organisms where one organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed.

Let's analyze each option provided:

1. **Orchid on the mango branch:** This is an example of commensalism. Orchids (epiphytes) grow on mango trees but do not take nutrients from them. They benefit by having a place to grow, while the mango tree is not affected.

2. **Kuku and Kru:** This option refers to a relationship that is not commensalism. It is an example of parasitism, where one organism (the parasite) benefits at the expense of the other (the host).

3. **Egret and grazing cattle:** This is an example of commensalism. Egrets often follow grazing cattle to feed on insects that are disturbed by the cattle's movement. The egrets benefit from the food source, while the cattle are not harmed or benefited.

4. **Sea anemone and clownfish:** This is also an example of commensalism. The clownfish lives among the tentacles of the sea anemone, gaining protection from predators, while the sea anemone is not harmed.

After analyzing all the options, the answer to the question "Which of the following is not an example of commensalism?" is:

**Correct Answer:** Kuku and Kru (Option 2).