Question

Explain how the interaction between sea anemone and clownfish is one of the best examples of commensalism in nature.

Hint:

In aquatic ecosystems, fast turnover of phytoplankton causes an inverted biomass pyramid. Commensalism involves one-sided benefit without harming the other species.

Answer 1

Step 1: Commensalism is an interaction where one species benefits while the other is neither harmed nor benefited.
Step 2: In the case of sea anemone and clownfish:

• The clownfish lives among the tentacles of sea anemones.
• The tentacles protect the clownfish from predators, as they are stinging in nature.
• The clownfish is immune to these stings due to a protective mucus layer on its body.
• The sea anemone does not receive any benefit or harm from this association. 

Step 3: This interaction is a classic example of commensalism — clownfish benefits from protection while sea anemone remains unaffected.