Evidence 2

Life Science
By: Daniel Morones Rodriguez
References:

de Bekker, C., Quevillon, L. E., Smith, P. B., Fleming, K. R., Ghosh, D., Patterson, A. D., &
Hughes, D. P. (2014). Species-specific ant brain manipulation by a specialized fungal
parasite. BMC Evolutionary Biology, 14(1), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12862-014-0166-3

Sunquist, M., & Sunquist, F. (2002). Wild cats of the world. University of Chicago Press.
https://doi.org/10.7208/chicago/9780226299754.001.0001

Questions:

What is the relationship between the two organisms in the ecosystem?

The Ophiocordyceps unilateralis fungus and the Bengal tiger do not have a direct ecological
relationship in the tropical rainforest ecosystem. They occupy different trophic levels and
niches within the ecosystem. The fungus is a parasite that infects insects, while the tiger is
an apex predator at the top of the food chain. However, they are both integral components of
the intricate web of life that sustains the rainforest ecosystem. The fungus plays a role in
regulating insect populations, while the tiger helps maintain the balance of prey populations
and contributes to the overall biodiversity of the ecosystem.

How important are the selected species in their environment?

Both the Ophiocordyceps unilateralis fungus and the Bengal tiger are highly important
species in their respective environments within the tropical rainforest ecosystem.
The Ophiocordyceps unilateralis fungus is a crucial component of the ecosystem's
decomposer community. As a parasite of insects, it helps regulate insect populations,
preventing any one species from becoming too abundant and disrupting the delicate
ecological balance (de Bekker et al., 2014). Additionally, the fungus contributes to nutrient
cycling by breaking down organic matter and making nutrients available to other organisms.

The Bengal tiger, as an apex predator, plays a vital role in maintaining the health and
stability of the ecosystem. By preying on herbivores, tigers help regulate the populations of
their prey species, preventing overgrazing and ensuring the long-term sustainability of plant
communities (Sunquist & Sunquist, 2002). Tigers also contribute to the genetic diversity of
their prey species by selectively hunting weaker or less fit individuals, thereby promoting the
survival of stronger individuals.

References:

de Bekker, C., Quevillon, L. E., Smith, P. B., Fleming, K. R., Ghosh, D., Patterson, A. D., &
Hughes, D. P. (2014). Species-specific ant brain manipulation by a specialized fungal
parasite. BMC Evolutionary Biology, 14(1), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12862-014-0166-3

Sunquist, M., & Sunquist, F. (2002). Wild cats of the world. University of Chicago Press.
https://doi.org/10.7208/chicago/9780226299754.001.0001