species interactions

Front

What is mutualism?

Back

A relationship between two organisms in which both organisms benefit.

Front

What is commensalism?

Back

A relationship between two organisms in which one organism benefits and the other is unharmed.

Front

Give an example of mutualism in nature.

Back

Ostriches and Gazelles feed next to each other, alerting each other to predators, benefiting both.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

Front

What type of relationship do crocodiles and birds have?

Back

Mutualism, as the crocodile benefits from having its teeth cleaned and the bird gains food and protection.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

Front

What is the definition of symbiosis?

Back

A close and long-term interaction between two different biological species.

Front

What type of symbiosis is represented by hermit crabs using shells left by dead snails?

Back

Commensalism, as the hermit crab benefits while the snail is not affected.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

Front

What is the difference between mutualism and commensalism?

Back

In mutualism, both organisms benefit; in commensalism, one benefits while the other is unharmed.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

Front

Can you name a real-world example of commensalism?

Back

Barnacles attaching to whales; barnacles benefit while the whale is not harmed.

Front

What is parasitism?

Back

A relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of another.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Front

How does mutualism differ from parasitism?

Back

Mutualism benefits both organisms, while parasitism benefits one at the other's expense.