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Learning Objectives

Upon completing this module, you should be able to:

• Define "mutualism" and give examples.
• Explain the difference between the "interaction grid" and the "interaction continuum" (i.e., explain the phrase "context-dependent outcome").
• Identify the kind of benefit that ants usually provide to their mutualistic partners.
• List three of the four ways that lycaenid larvae communicate with ants.
• Describe the difference between an obligate interaction and a facultative one.
• Name one hypothesis for the function of the tentacular organ, and state whether or not this hypothesis was supported by results from actual experiments.

System Requirements

This module uses a Flash animation; if you experience difficulties, it could be that you do not have the current Flash player. It is free: download it from the Flash site.

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Please report any problems or concerns to the webmaster, Margrit McIntosh (email her).