The Incredible Relationship Between Capuchin Monkeys and Brazil Nut Trees
What is the direct relationship between capuchin monkeys and Brazil nut trees?
Capuchin monkeys have been known to use rocks to smash open the fruits of Brazil nut trees. On the rare occasions when this has been observed, the monkeys consume all of the Brazil nuts. Thus, which of the following correctly depicts the direct relationship between capuchin monkeys and Brazil nut trees?
Final answer:
The ecological relationship between capuchin monkeys and Brazil nut trees is negative for the Brazil nut trees. This is because the monkeys consume all the seeds, leaving none for potential germination, thereby inhibiting the trees' reproduction.
Explanation:
The direct relationship between capuchin monkeys and Brazil nut trees can be depicted as negative for the Brazil nut tree because capuchin monkeys consume all the Brazil nuts, eliminating any chance for seed dispersal and future germination of the Brazil nut tree. In ecology, this type of relationship would be designated with a (-) symbol next to the Brazil nut tree. Although the capuchin monkeys derive a positive benefit from the relationship due to the nutritional value of the seeds, their complete consumption of the seeds prevents the tree from reproducing, which is a crucial aspect of the life cycle of any organism. As a result, the capuchin monkeys pose a threat to the sustainability of the Brazil nut trees.