Question

Define commensalism and write two examples.

Hint:

Commensalism is common in nature and involves one organism benefiting while the other remains neutral.

Answer 1

Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits from the relationship, while the other is neither helped nor harmed. Step 1: Understanding commensalism.
- In commensalism, one organism gains an advantage (usually in terms of food, shelter, or transport), while the other remains unaffected.
Step 2: Examples.
1. Barnacles on whales. The barnacles benefit from being transported to nutrient-rich waters, while the whale is unaffected. 2. Cattle egrets and cattle. Cattle egrets feed on insects stirred up by grazing cattle, without affecting the cattle.
Final Answer: 1. Barnacles on whales. 2. Cattle egrets and cattle.