Plants that produce fruits are part of a_____________ mutualism.

Options

A. behavioral
B. seed dispersal
C. gut inhabitant
D. exploitation

Answer

To answer the question "Plants that produce fruits are part of a_____________ mutualism," we need to analyze the relationship between plants and animals regarding fruit production and seed dispersal.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Mutualism**: Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both parties benefit from the interaction. In this case, we are looking at the relationship between plants and animals.

2. **Role of Fruits**: Plants produce fruits primarily for reproduction. Fruits contain seeds, which are crucial for the propagation of the plant species.

3. **Animal Interaction**: Animals are attracted to fruits because they provide nourishment. When animals consume the fruit, they benefit from the energy and nutrients it offers.

4. **Seed Dispersal Mechanism**:
- **Excretion**: After eating the fruit, animals digest the pulp but not the seeds. The seeds are then excreted in a different location, allowing for new plant growth away from the parent plant.
- **Attachment**: In some cases, seeds can stick to the fur or feathers of animals. When these animals move to different locations, they inadvertently carry the seeds with them, which can lead to new plant growth.

5. **Conclusion**: This interaction is an example of mutualism because the plants benefit by having their seeds dispersed, while the animals benefit by obtaining food from the fruits. Therefore, the correct term to fill in the blank is "mutualistic."

### Final Answer:
Plants that produce fruits are part of a **mutualistic** mutualism.

---