Symbiosis & Microbiota

Front

What is symbiosis?

Back

Symbiosis is a close and long-term interaction between two different biological species.

Front

What are the three main types of symbiotic relationships?

Back

The three main types are mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism.

Front

Define mutualism.

Back

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit from the interaction.

Front

Define commensalism.

Back

Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed.

Front

Define parasitism.

Back

Parasitism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of the other.

Front

What is a biofilm?

Back

A biofilm is a complex microbial community attached to a surface, often encased in a protective matrix.

Front

Give an example of mutualism.

Back

An example of mutualism is the relationship between bees and flowering plants, where bees get nectar and plants get pollinated.

Front

Give an example of commensalism.

Back

An example of commensalism is cattle egrets foraging among cattle, benefiting from insects stirred up by the cattle.

Front

Give an example of parasitism.

Back

An example of parasitism is a tapeworm living in the intestines of a host organism, benefiting while harming the host.

Front

What is a portal of entry?

Back

A portal of entry is the way a pathogen enters a new host or reservoir.