Symbiotic Associations /B.Sc.I / Animal Ecology

 Symbiotic Associations

• Symbiotic relationships are a special type of interaction between species or organisms. Sometimes beneficial, sometimes harmful, these relationships are essential to many organisms and ecosystems, and they provide a balance that can only be achieved by working together.

 

• Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship in which both species benefit.

 

• Commensalism is a symbiotic relationship in which one species benefits while the other species is not affected. Example: The relationship between cattle egrets and cattle.

 

• Parasitism is a symbiotic relationship in which one species (the parasite) benefits while the other species (the host) is harmed.