Mistletoe has a parasitic relationship with shrubs and trees. how would the carrying capacity for apple trees in an orchard be affected if the mistletoe population decreased in size? a. the carrying capacity for apple trees would increase. b. the carrying capacity for apple trees would decrease. c. the carrying capacity for apple trees would stay the same.

If the mistletoe population decreased I size the carrying capacity of the apple trees could increase.

Explanation:

Mistletoe is a parasitic species that can affect several tree species.  In a parasitic relationship only one party will be benefited while the other party will be affected negatively.  The scientific name of common mistletoe is Viscum album L. and it can affect tree vitality and productivity.

Mistletoe can affect the flowering and fruiting of trees which makes apple trees lag behind in fruit production.  The infection can also make the trees more susceptible to further attacks from other pests. Thus controlling mistletoe infection would help greatly in improving tree health and productivity.