Zoochlorellae in nutritive muscular cells of hydra is an example of

Options

A. Ammensalism
B. Parasitism
C. Commensalism
D. Mutualism

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Zoochlorellae**: Zoochlorellae are a type of green algae that live in a symbiotic relationship with certain organisms, including the hydra. They are autotrophic, meaning they can produce their own food through photosynthesis.

2. **Identifying the Relationship**: In the case of hydra, the zoochlorellae reside within the nutritive muscular cells of the hydra. The algae perform photosynthesis and produce food, which is then utilized by the hydra.

3. **Mutual Benefit**: The relationship between zoochlorellae and hydra is mutualistic. The hydra provides a safe habitat for the zoochlorellae, protecting them from potential harm, while the zoochlorellae provide essential nutrients to the hydra.

4. **Analyzing Other Types of Relationships**:
- **Commensalism**: One organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed. This does not apply here since both organisms benefit.
- **Parasitism**: One organism benefits at the expense of the other. This is not the case with zoochlorellae and hydra.
- **Amensalism**: One organism is harmed while the other is unaffected. This is also not applicable in this context.

5. **Conclusion**: Since both the zoochlorellae and the hydra benefit from their relationship, the correct answer is that the relationship is an example of **mutualism**.

**Final Answer**: Zoochlorellae in nutritive muscular cells of hydra is an example of **mutualism**.

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