Question

Which of the following is/are example(s) of animal-microbe mutualism?

• A. Human - {Mycobacterium tuberculosis}
• B. Dog - Rabies lyssavirus
• C. Human - {Lactobacillus plantarum}
• D. Cow - {Ruminococcus albus}

Hint:

In mutualistic relationships, both the host and the microorganism benefit. For example, {Lactobacillus plantarum} helps humans with digestion, and {Ruminococcus albus} assists cows in breaking down cellulose.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C, D

Let's review each example of animal-microbe mutualism: 
- Option (A): Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes tuberculosis, a disease harmful to humans, not a mutualistic relationship. Therefore, Option (A) is incorrect.
- Option (B): Rabies lyssavirus is a pathogenic virus that causes disease in dogs, not a mutualistic relationship. Therefore, Option (B) is incorrect.
- Option (C): Lactobacillus plantarum is a beneficial bacterium that resides in the human gut and aids in digestion. This is a mutualistic relationship, where both the human and the bacterium benefit. Therefore, Option (C) is correct.
- Option (D): Ruminococcus albus is a bacterium found in the cow’s digestive system, where it helps break down cellulose in the cow’s diet. This is another example of mutualism, benefiting both the cow and the bacterium. Therefore, Option (D) is correct.
Thus, the correct answer is (C), (D).