Mutualism, Commensalism, Parasitism Flashcards

Study Notes

Habitat and Niche

Habitat refers to the natural environment where organisms like animals and plants live.
Niche defines the specific role an organism plays within its ecosystem, including its use of resources and interactions with other organisms.

Symbiosis

Symbiosis encompasses close, long-term interactions between different biological species.
Types of symbiotic relationships include mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism.

Mutualism

Mutualism is a relationship where both organisms involved benefit.
Example: Bees and Flowers - Bees consume nectar and simultaneously pollinate flowers, aiding in reproduction.
Example: Alligators and Birds - Birds clean the teeth of alligators while feeding on the residual food.
Example: Clownfish and Sea Anemone - Clownfish seek shelter in anemones for protection; in return, they clean the anemones.

Commensalism

Commensalism involves a relationship where one organism benefits and the other remains unaffected.
Example: Remora and Sharks - Remoras attach to sharks for protection and feed on leftover scraps.
Example: Elephants and Birds - Elephants offer shade and safety from predators to birds.
Example: Cattle Egrets and Livestock - Cattle egrets follow livestock to consume insects disturbed by their movement.

Parasitism

Parasitism is a relationship in which one organism benefits at the expense of another, causing harm.
Example: Mosquitoes - Mosquitoes draw blood from other organisms, sometimes transmitting diseases.
Example: Parasitic Worms - These worms live in hosts, consuming nutrients and hindering the host's nutrient absorption.
Example: Ticks - Ticks feed on the blood of their hosts, potentially transmitting diseases like Lyme disease.

Description

Test your understanding of ecological relationships with these flashcards focused on mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism. Each card provides key definitions and concepts crucial for studying interactions in ecosystems. Perfect for biology students looking to enhance their knowledge on these important topics.