Question

For Protocooperation species the interaction is not necessary.

(a) True

(b) False

This question was posed to me during an interview for a job.

The doubt is from Major Classes of Interactions in Mixed Cultures topic in division Mixed Cultures & Traditional Industrial Bioprocesses of Bioprocess Engineering

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(b) False

Explanation:

Protocooperation refers to a type of mutualistic interaction between two species in which both species benefit, but the relationship is not strictly obligatory. However, even though the relationship is not obligatory (meaning the species can survive independently), the interaction is still necessary for the organisms to receive the mutual benefits. In protocooperation, both species benefit from the interaction, but they do not rely on it for survival.

For example, certain animals may help each other in foraging or protection, and while they can survive alone, the cooperation provides mutual benefits.

So, the statement "For Protocooperation species the interaction is not necessary" is false because although the interaction is not obligatory, it is still necessary for the mutual benefits to occur.