What does mutualism promote in species interactions?

Mutualism is a type of species interaction where both species involved gain benefits from the relationship. This cooperative interaction can enhance survival, reproduction, or growth for both parties. For example, a classic illustration of mutualism is the relationship between flowering plants and pollinators, like bees. The pollinators receive nectar as food, while the plants benefit from the pollination needed for reproduction.

In contrast, the other options describe interactions that do not encompass this mutual benefit. Neutral benefit suggests that one species is unaffected by the other, which does not align with the essence of mutualism. One-sided benefit indicates that only one species gains from the interaction, which is characteristic of parasitism or commensalism instead. Competing advantage suggests a scenario where species are competing for resources, contradicting the idea of cooperative benefit inherent in mutualism. Thus, mutualism distinctly promotes a mutual benefit between the interacting species.