Chthamalus and Balanus belong to the same trophic level.Based on this information and their distributions in the low tide zone in Connell's experiment,what is the best way to represent the interaction between the two species using the symbols for positive (+)and negative (-)interaction?
A)+/+
B)-/+
C)-/-
D)+/0

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Chthamalus and Balanus compete for space and resources, so their interaction is negative (-). Since they belong to the same trophic level, their interaction is not related to predation, so it is not positive (+). The fact that they coexist in different zones of the low tide zone does not imply a positive or neutral interaction, as it can be the result of differences in their tolerance to environmental conditions. Therefore, the answer is (-/-) or negative interaction.

Chthamalus and Balanus Belong to the Same Trophic Level