In which of the following interactions both interacting species show co-evolution, co-extinction, co-existance.

Options

A. Competition
B. Predation
C. Mutualism/symbiosis
D. Commensalism

Answer

To solve the question regarding which interaction allows both interacting species to show co-evolution, co-extinction, and co-existence, we will analyze each option provided.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Terms**:
- **Co-evolution**: This occurs when two species evolve in response to each other, often due to a close relationship.
- **Co-extinction**: This happens when the extinction of one species leads to the extinction of another species that is dependent on it.
- **Co-existence**: This refers to two species living together and being dependent on each other for survival.

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Competition**:
- In competition, two species compete for the same resources.
- **Co-evolution**: Possible, but not guaranteed.
- **Co-extinction**: Not applicable; if one species dies, the other may benefit.
- **Co-existence**: Not true; they are competing and not dependent on each other.
- **Conclusion**: Does not satisfy all three conditions.

- **Predation**:
- In predation, one species (the predator) hunts and consumes another (the prey).
- **Co-evolution**: Yes, they can co-evolve (e.g., prey developing defenses).
- **Co-extinction**: Possible if the prey goes extinct, the predator may also go extinct, but not vice versa.
- **Co-existence**: Not true; they are not mutually dependent.
- **Conclusion**: Does not satisfy all three conditions.

- **Mutualism (or Symbiosis)**:
- In mutualism, both species benefit from the interaction.
- **Co-evolution**: Yes, they evolve together (e.g., bees and flowers).
- **Co-extinction**: Yes, if one goes extinct, the other may also struggle to survive.
- **Co-existence**: Yes, they are dependent on each other for survival.
- **Conclusion**: Satisfies all three conditions.

- **Commensalism**:
- In commensalism, one species benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed.
- **Co-evolution**: Not necessary; the dependent species does not influence the other.
- **Co-extinction**: Not applicable; if the benefiting species goes extinct, the other is unaffected.
- **Co-existence**: Not true; they do not rely on each other.
- **Conclusion**: Does not satisfy all three conditions.

3. **Final Answer**:
- The correct answer is **Mutualism (or Symbiosis)**, as it is the only interaction that allows for co-evolution, co-extinction, and co-existence among the interacting species.