Symbiosis and Symbiotic Relationship

Symbiosis is a close, ongoing relationship between two different species in an ecosystem.

Types of Symbiosis

Mutualism

Both species benefit. Example: Bees and flowers.

• Obligate Mutualism: Necessary for survival (e.g., mycorrhizal fungi).
• Facultative Mutualism: Beneficial but not essential (e.g., oxpeckers).

Parasitism

One benefits at the expense of another. Example: Ticks, tapeworms.

• Endoparasitism: Inside host.
• Ectoparasitism: Outside host.

Commensalism

One gains, other is unaffected. Example: Barnacles on whales.

• Phoresy: Transportation.
• Epiphytism: Support (e.g., orchids on trees).

Advantages of Symbiosis

• Resource conservation
• Nutrient Exchange
• Reproductive benefits
• Increased Biodiversity