Symbiosis, a brief introduction to Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism.

Symbiosis, what does it mean? Symbiosis is a long-term association between two or more species. And while symbiosis does not directly affect the abiotic and biotic factors, it is a close relative. You see, ecosystems not only consist of different abiotic an biotic factors, they consist of many symbiotic animals as well.

Mutualism

Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship from which both animals benefit, notice the root word? Mutual? Some example of these sort of relations can actually be found right inside of you! You unknowingly harbor bacteria in your intestines. Don't worry, you both actually benefit from the relationship! You see, the little bacteria receive food are nutrients from you, and in return they give you vitamins that are vital to you.

Another great example of mutualism can be found in that of the relations between algae and certain kinds of coral. In the relationship the coral receives extra food that the algae produce by photosynthesis. In return for this service, the algae receive a place to live and nutrients.

Commensalism

Another symbiotic relationship from which only one organism benefits is and the other is unaffected is called commensalism.

One example of this sort of relationship can be found in the ocean between a shark and a remora. Remoras hitch rides on sharks and feed on the left over scraps. The remoras benefit while the shark is unaffected.

Parasitism

Parasitism, a symbiotic relation from which one benefits while the other is harmed. The parasite rarely kills their host, as they need them for food and nutrients.

One example of this is between a tomato hornworm and a female wasp. The female begins the relation by laying her eggs on the hornworm. As the eggs hatch, they will burrow into the hornworm and begin eating the caterpillar alive. In this example, the host actually dies, but as previously mentioned, this is a rare occurrence.