Question on: JAMB Biology - 2024

The feeding relationship between ruminants and the bacteria in their digestive tract is symbiotic.* Symbiosis refers to a close and long-term interaction between different biological species. In this specific case, it's a mutualistic symbiosis, meaning that both organisms benefit.* Ruminants (like cows and goats) have specialized stomachs with multiple chambers that harbor bacteria. These bacteria help break down cellulose (from plant matter), which ruminants cannot digest on their own.* The bacteria receive a stable environment and a constant supply of food from the ruminant.* The ruminant benefits by being able to digest the cellulose, making nutrients available to it.The other options are incorrect:* Saprophytic refers to organisms that feed on dead or decaying organic matter.* Parasitic refers to organisms that live on or in a host and benefit at the host's expense.* Heterotrophic is a general term that refers to organisms that obtain nutrients by consuming other organisms or organic matter, not a specific type of feeding relationship.

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