Question

Учень та учениця обговорювали взаємовідносини між бобовими рослинами й азотфіксувальними організмами в наведеному біогеохімічному циклі. Учень висловив судження, що взаємовідносини між ними є результатом коеволюції. Учениця зауважила, що ці взаємовідносини можна віднести до взаємовигідних. Чи має хтось із них рацію?

Answer 1

The Relationship Between Legume Plants and Nitrogen-Fixing Organisms

Legume plants, such as beans, peas, and clover, have a unique relationship with certain bacteria called nitrogen-fixing organisms. These bacteria have the ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use, a process known as nitrogen fixation. This symbiotic relationship between legume plants and nitrogen-fixing organisms is crucial for the nitrogen cycle and has significant ecological implications.

Coevolution and Mutualistic Relationships

Coevolution is a process in which two or more species reciprocally influence each other's evolution over time. In the case of legume plants and nitrogen-fixing organisms, their relationship can be seen as an example of coevolution. Coevolution occurs when two species exert selective pressures on each other, leading to adaptations that benefit both species.

The coevolutionary relationship between legume plants and nitrogen-fixing organisms is thought to have developed over millions of years. As legume plants evolved to provide a specialized structure called nodules on their roots, nitrogen-fixing bacteria adapted to colonize these nodules and establish a mutually beneficial relationship. The plants provide the bacteria with a protected environment and a source of energy in the form of carbohydrates, while the bacteria supply the plants with fixed nitrogen, an essential nutrient for growth [[1]].

Mutualistic Interactions

Mutualism refers to a type of symbiotic relationship in which both species involved benefit from the interaction. In the case of legume plants and nitrogen-fixing organisms, their relationship can be considered mutualistic. The legume plants receive a direct benefit from the nitrogen-fixing bacteria, as they are able to access a vital nutrient (nitrogen) that is otherwise limited in the soil. In return, the legume plants provide the bacteria with a suitable habitat and a source of nutrients [[2]].

The mutualistic relationship between legume plants and nitrogen-fixing organisms is a classic example of how species can form interdependent relationships that enhance their survival and reproductive success. By working together, both species are able to thrive in environments where nitrogen availability may be limited.

Rationality of the Students' Statements

Both the student who suggested that the relationship between legume plants and nitrogen-fixing organisms is a result of coevolution and the student who mentioned that these interactions can be classified as mutualistic have valid points.

The concept of coevolution is supported by the fact that legume plants and nitrogen-fixing organisms have undergone reciprocal adaptations over time. The development of specialized nodules on legume roots and the ability of nitrogen-fixing bacteria to colonize these nodules indicate a long history of coevolutionary interactions [[1]].

Similarly, the classification of the relationship as mutualistic is justified by the fact that both legume plants and nitrogen-fixing organisms benefit from their interaction. Legume plants gain access to fixed nitrogen, which is essential for their growth, while nitrogen-fixing organisms receive a protected habitat and a source of nutrients [[2]].

In conclusion, both students' statements have a rational basis. The relationship between legume plants and nitrogen-fixing organisms can be considered a result of coevolution and a mutualistic interaction.

Let me know if there is anything else I can help you with!