In Desert Environments, Many Larger Plants Serve as "Nurse" Plants

question 41

Multiple Choice

In desert environments, many larger plants serve as "nurse" plants for smaller species that grow beneath them and benefit from their shade. Which characteristic of this association suggests that coevolution is not a major factor?

• A) The association is facultative, rather than obligate.
• B) The association involves commensalism, rather than mutualism.
• C) A single nurse species can protect many different smaller species.
• D) The association occurs only in the desert.

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Definitions:

Grandiose Sense

An inflated sense of self-importance or superiority over others.

Dogmatism

The tendency to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true, without consideration of evidence or the opinions of others.

Cooperate

The act of working or acting together for a common purpose or benefit.

Anonymity

The state of being unknown or unacknowledged in a particular context, allowing individuals to act or communicate without revealing their identity.