Biology A-Level
mutualism
What mutualism means in Biology A-Level, as defined for AQA, OCR.
Definitions of mutualism
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Reference: AQA
A relationship in which the fungus gains organic compounds, principally sugars from photosynthesis, and the plant gains increased uptake of water and inorganic ions, so both partners gain.
An interaction that benefits both populations, for example nitrogen-fixing bacteria in root nodules supplying fixed nitrogen while receiving carbohydrates.
Topics that use mutualism
- Nutrient cycles (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
- Populations and sustainability (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- algal bloom
- ammonification
- artificial fertilisers
- Biodiversity and ecosystem function
- Births, deaths, immigration and emigration
- Classifying management examples
- Conservation
- decomposers
Using mutualism in the exam
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