Symbiosis

Front

What is symbiosis?

Back

Symbiosis is a close and long-term interaction between two different species, which can be beneficial, neutral, or harmful to one or both parties.

Front

What are the three main types of symbiosis?

Back

The three main types of symbiosis are mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism.

Front

Define mutualism.

Back

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit from the interaction.

Front

Define commensalism.

Back

Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed.

Front

Define parasitism.

Back

Parasitism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of the other, which is harmed.

Front

Example of mutualism:

Back

Clownfish and sea anemones; clownfish get protection while anemones get food.

Front

Example of commensalism:

Back

Cattle egrets and cattle; egrets benefit from insects stirred up by cattle, while cattle are unaffected.

Front

Example of parasitism:

Back

Hookworms in humans; hookworms feed on human blood, harming the host.

Front

What is the role of lactobacilli in the human body?

Back

Lactobacilli are beneficial bacteria that help destroy harmful microorganisms in the lungs.

Front

How do parasites affect their hosts?

Back

Parasites can weaken or harm their hosts by feeding on them or stealing nutrients.