In a marine ecosystem, clownfish hide from their predators in the tentacles of sea anemones. These fish also protect anemones from butterflyfish, which eat anemones. Which type of relationship do clownfish and sea anemones have?

A.

predation

B.

commensalism

C.

parasitism

D.

mutualism

D. mutualism

Explanation:

It is a mutualism because the to species behave in ways that benefit both. The anemones have nematocyst with a paralyzing effect in theirs prey. However clown fish are safe because evolve in harmony with the sea anemones. In this alliance the clown fish defends the anemone too. The anemone has urticant that affects clownfish's depredator.

In summary the clownfish gain feed (detritus left from the anemone) and protection from predation. And the clown fish protect the anemones from some of their predators.

The answer is D mutualism they are both benefited