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Ecology S22: Exploring parasitism exploitative relationship of the Common ivy (Hedera helix).
This photo was taken on March 29th, 2022, in Woodridge, IL. From the information captured in INaturalist, this species is known as the common ivy (Hedera helix), which is part of the family Araliaceae. What we know about the common ivy is commonly found throughout the eastern U.S. and Europe. It mostly grows under cool conditions, such as in places where grass doesn't grow. The tree underneath the common ivy could not be identified. But we can say that the tree and the common ivy have an exploitative relationship. More specifically, their relationship is similar to that of parasitism. Also, defined as one species is benefiting while the other species is harmed. In this example, the common ivy acts like the parasite, and the tree acts as the host. This ectoparasite forms a layer over the exterior walls of its host. This causes fungus and plant waste to build up, which causes harm to the tree. This could eventually lead to killing the tree in the future because the ivy will overtake the whole tree by covering its bark and preventing light from reaching the tree. In addition, the growth of the common ivy gives the opportunity for other creatures and pests to shelter.
Ecology S22: Exploring parasitism exploitative relationship of the Common ivy (Hedera helix).
This photo was taken on March 29th, 2022, in Woodridge, IL. From the information captured in INaturalist, this species is known as the common ivy (Hedera helix), which is part of the family Araliaceae. What we know about the common ivy is commonly found throughout the eastern U.S. and Europe. It mostly grows under cool conditions, such as in places where grass doesn't grow. The tree underneath the common ivy could not be identified. But we can say that the tree and the common ivy have an exploitative relationship. More specifically, their relationship is similar to that of parasitism. Also, defined as one species is benefiting while the other species is harmed. In this example, the common ivy acts like the parasite, and the tree acts as the host. This ectoparasite forms a layer over the exterior walls of its host. This causes fungus and plant waste to build up, which causes harm to the tree. This could eventually lead to killing the tree in the future because the ivy will overtake the whole tree by covering its bark and preventing light from reaching the tree. In addition, the growth of the common ivy gives the opportunity for other creatures and pests to shelter.