Question

3(a) Classify the following biological associations under the headings in the table below: (i) Remora and shark; (ii) Lichen; (iii) Cattle and white Egret; (iv) Tapeworm in the gut of humans; (v) Flowers and honeybees; (vi) Mistletoe and cacao plant. (b)(i) State three adaptive features of parasites. (ii) State two effects of parasites on their hosts. (c)(i) What are saprophytes? (ii) Give four examples of saprophytes.

Accepted Answer

(a) Classification table: Parasitism - Tapeworm in the gut of human; mistletoe and cacao plant. Mutualism - Flowers and honeybee; lichen. Commensalism - Cattle and white egret, Remora and shark.
(b)(i) Adaptive features of parasites (any three): Possession of structures for the attachment to the host; Ability to reproduce in large number; Possession of structure to withstand harsh conditions.
(ii) Effects of parasites on their hosts (any two): The host may experience loss in weight; The host may eventually die.
(c)(i) Saprophytes are organisms that obtain their nutrient from dead and decaying organic matter.
(ii) Examples of saprophytes: Rhizopus, mushroom, Mucor and toadstool.

WAEC Biology 2019 Theory — Question 3

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