Leaf-Cutter Ants and Phorid FlyThe leaf-cutter ant is known as a ground-dwelling species, native to semi-tropical areas of Central and South America and parts of Southern North America, who gather and cut leaves to construct their large nests. The Phorid fly is a small fly, native to the tropics, who is generally seen running on surface, rather than flying. While the leaf-cutter ants are collecting leaves, the Phorid fly will attack the worker ants are plant its eggs in the ant’s body, serving as a host. When the larvae hatches, it will eat the ant from the inside, making it an ectoparasite, and eventually killing the ant. The Phorid fly ultimately benefits, while the ants suffer and are harmed, making this a great example of parasitism.
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Capuchin Monkey and Flowering TreesThe Capuchin Monkey is known as a tree-dwelling species, native to Central and South America, which have been recognized as very intelligent animals. The Flowering Trees in the Tropical Rain forest contain many different species with a variety of flowers. As the Capuchin Monkeys feed on the nectar of theses Flowering Trees, getting pollen its face. The monkey distributes the pollen to other flowers and gets food in return for the Flowering tree, making this an example of dispersive mutualism. Both the Capuchin monkey and the Flowering trees benefit in the relationship.
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Ecitoninae and AntibirdsEcitoninae are a species of predatory army ants, native to Central and South America, who are famous for their trend of attacking any think that stands in their way. Antibirds are small, dull-colored birds that follow the ants and snack on what is left behinds by the ants. These ants cause insects to come out, a perfect chance for the Antibirds to eat. The Antibirds benefit from the Ecitoninae’s habits, and the army ants are not harmed, showing commensalism.
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Red Poison Dart Frog and MosquitoRed Poison Dart Frog, native to Central America, are known for their variation of bright colors and for being highly-toxic. Mosquitos, flying insects that suck blood from animals, fly around, while the Red Poison Dart Frog is looking for a meal. The frog uses its long tongue to grab the mosquito. Since the Red Poison Dart Frog prey on the Mosquitos, it is the predator, while the Mosquitos are hunted by the frog, making it the prey.
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