A Commensal Relationship: Algae and Sloth

A type of Algae grows on a sloth. What must be true for the algae and the sloth to have a commensal relationship?

In order to have a commensal relationship, the algae obtains food or other benefits from the sloth without either harming or benefiting the latter.

Final answer:

For a commensal relationship between the algae and the sloth, the algae must benefit while the sloth is unaffected.

Explanation:

In order for the algae and the sloth to have a commensal relationship, the algae must benefit while the sloth neither benefits nor is harmed. In this relationship, the algae grows on the sloth, using it as a substrate for growth, while the sloth is unaffected by the presence of the algae.

Algae are a diverse group of photosynthetic organisms that can range from single-celled microscopic organisms to multicellular structures, such as seaweeds. They can be found in various habitats, including freshwater, marine environments, soil, and even in symbiotic relationships with other organisms like fungi in lichens.

What is needed for a commensal relationship between the algae and the sloth?

The algae must benefit while the sloth remains unaffected in order to have a commensal relationship.