What term is used to refer to organisms that do not depend on one particular organism for food or a place to live?

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the TAMU BIOL206 Introductory Microbiology Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The term that accurately describes organisms that do not rely on a single type of organism for food or habitat is "free-living organisms." These organisms are capable of thriving independently in their environment, obtaining resources such as nutrients and shelter from a diverse range of sources.

Free-living organisms can often adapt to various ecological niches and can exist without forming close relationships with other organisms. This contrasts with symbiotic organisms, which interact closely with others, often to their mutual benefit, and parasitic organisms, which depend on their host for sustenance and may harm that host in the process. Dependent organisms, as a term, is non-specific and does not accurately convey the nature of organisms that operate independently of others. Thus, "free-living organisms" is the correct term that emphasizes their autonomous lifestyle.