In the rain forests of Panama, scientists found a colony of tree-dwelling black ants where some individuals had red abdomens. When examined, the scientists determined that the ants with red abdomens were infected with roundworm eggs. Birds would prey on these ants, mistaking their red bellies for berries. In the interactions among the tree-dwelling black ants, the roundworms, and the birds, the ants are the_________ for the roundworms.
A) predators
B) parasites
C) hosts
D) mutualists
E) prey

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ants with red abdomens are hosts for the roundworms because the roundworm eggs are found within these ants, indicating a parasitic relationship where the roundworms live and reproduce inside the ants.

In the Rain Forests of Panama, Scientists Found a Colony