Chapter 2.1, Problem 6MI

Summary Introduction

To rephrase:

The terms mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism by giving examples for each term.

Introduction:

Symbiosis can be defined as a close relationship between two different organisms, which belong to the same community. In this type of relationship, at least one of the species benefits. It is basically of three types, commensalism, mutualism and parasitism.

Explanation of Solution

Mutualism is the interaction between two organisms belonging to different species/populations and these organisms are beneficial for each other.

Example: Bees and flowers. The bees get nectar from flowers, and in return, they act as pollinators and help in the reproduction of plants.

Commensalismis a symbiotic relationship, in which one organism is benefitted and the other organism is neither harmed nor benefitted.

Example: Birds that live in the hollows of trees. In this case, the tree is not benefitted, but the bird gets shelter and protection.

Parasitism is a kind of interaction where one organism (parasite) of a species benefits by feeding or living on an organism (host) of different species. Here, the host gets harmed by the parasite.

Example:Mosquitoes feeding on human blood. Here, mosquitoes are parasites and humans are hosts.