Why is mutualism more common in rain forests and coral reefs than in other ecosystems?

Answer 1

Mutualism is a type of parasitism that is defined as a relationship, which has evolved between two species where both species benefit. Mutualism can be between plants or animals, or both.

In the tropics, there is a higher likelihood for the need of seed dispersal. Seed dispersal systems account for approximately 30% of mutualistic relationships. Also, it can be considered a defensive type of mutualism for a tree and ants to coexist. The tree provides nutrients and shade/shelter for ants in large thorns, while the ants prevent other verterate herbivores from consuming the plant. The ants can also provide "maintenance" for these plants by consuming encroaching roots of other plants that may be harmful to their host plant. Mutualism can also be required for pollination of plants, or the transfer of nutrients.

These are all things that would be significantly less likely to be an issue or even exist in polar regions. In polar regions, there are not fruit bearing trees. There are not any deciduous/tropical trees with ants living in it. And there is a dramatic decrease in the number of plants living in polar regions. Polar areas typically are not concerned with pollinations because their population of plants are completely different to that found in the tropical regions. The polar plants are more self-sustainable and the animals stock up on nutrients when the food is available to them.

Answer 2

Every time I search for something, wiki never gives me the answer! Please go search it somewhere else!