An example of mutualism in the desert is the relationship between the yucca plant and the yucca moth. The yucca plant relies on the yucca moth for pollination, while the yucca moth depends on the yucca plant for food and a place to lay its eggs. The moth collects pollen from the yucca flowers and deliberately transfers it to another yucca plant, ensuring pollination. In return, the moth lays its eggs in the yucca flowers, and when the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on some of the yucca seeds. This relationship benefits both species, as the yucca plant gets pollinated, and the yucca moth gets a food source and a safe place for its offspring.
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