In a nutrient-poor habitat under study, it was observed that pine trees depend on mycorrhizal fungi associated with the root system for nutrient acquisition from the soil. The mycorrhizae in turn depend on the pine trees for energy in the form of carbon. Voles (a kind of rodent) were found to be present in the habitat and their association with the pine trees and mycorrhizae is depicted in the schematic below.


Based on the given information, choose the correct statement(s).

• A

  The three species involved are all in a direct obligate mutualistic relationship with each other.
• Correct answer
  B

  If the young pine trees invading the field fail to acquire mycorrhizal symbionts, the pine tree population could decrease over time.
• Correct answer
  C

  A marked decrease in the vole population would have a negative effect on the growth of new pine trees throughout the habitat.
• D

  The mycorrhizae share a parasitic relationship with the trees.

Hence, the correct answer is options: 'B', 'C'.