What is Commensalism?

In other words, an organism that benefits from the relationship has a positive effect on its survival or reproduction, while an organism that does not benefit from or is unaffected does not change. Symbiosis plays an important role in ecosystems, providing new habitats and resources for species and promoting biodiversity. In some cases, the relationship between two species changes over time, from symbiotic to reciprocal to parasitic.

For example, bird species that begin using hollow trees for nesting may attract insects that feed on the tree’s sap. Over time, insects help pollinate nearby plants, providing birds with a more stable food source. In summary, a symbiotic relationship plays an important role in ecosystems, shaping species’ behavior and survival, and promoting biodiversity. Understanding the role of symbiosis in nature can help us better understand the complex relationships between species and how they interact and influence each other.

It is also worth noting that classifying relationships between species as commensal, mutualistic, or parasitic can be subjective and depends on the observer’s circumstances and perspective. In some cases, relationships that appear symbiotic from one point of view can actually adversely affect one of the species involved. For example, the relationship between humans and the microbes that live on and within them has traditionally been viewed as symbiotic. Microorganisms benefit from the warmth, nutrition, and protection of their human hosts, while humans neither benefit nor harm.

In conclusion, commensalism explains interspecies relationships. It’s a useful concept to help you, but it’s important to realize that real-life relationships are complex, multifaceted, and can change over time.

A commensal symbiosis is a symbiotic relationship between two species in which one species benefits from association, while the other species neither benefits nor harms.