What is the symbiotic relationship between a barnacle and a whale?
How could you prove that the whale is not harmed? Commensalism
The correct answer and explanation is:
The symbiotic relationship between a barnacle and a whale is an example of commensalism. In this relationship, the barnacle benefits by attaching itself to the whale’s skin, gaining transportation to various feeding grounds and access to nutrient-rich waters. The whale is neither harmed nor benefited by the barnacle’s presence.
Barnacles use the whale as a substrate, a surface on which they can live. Because whales travel long distances through different ocean environments, barnacles attached to them gain better feeding opportunities by filtering plankton and organic matter from the water as the whale moves. The barnacle receives shelter and a steady supply of food particles, increasing its chances of survival and reproduction.
The whale, on the other hand, is generally unaffected by the barnacles. The barnacles do not feed on the whale or cause damage to its skin in a significant way. While a large number of barnacles might create some drag in the water, this effect is usually minimal and does not impair the whale’s health or movement.
To prove that the whale is not harmed, several approaches can be taken:
- Behavioral observation: Scientists can observe whales with barnacles over time to see if their swimming patterns, feeding behaviors, or social interactions change negatively compared to whales without barnacles.
- Health assessment: Researchers can examine skin samples from whales to check for injury, infection, or inflammation caused by barnacles. If there is no significant damage or immune response, it suggests the barnacles do not harm the whale.
- Comparative studies: Comparing the growth rate, reproductive success, and overall condition of whales with barnacles versus those without can show if the barnacles impose any biological cost.
- Drag measurement: Hydrodynamic studies can measure if barnacles significantly increase water resistance and affect whale energy use. Minor increases suggest low or no harm.
The evidence supports that barnacles benefit from the whale, while the whale remains unaffected. This fits the definition of commensalism, where one species benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed.