Symbiotic Relationships

Front

What is a symbiotic relationship?

Back

A symbiotic relationship 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 of symbiotic relationships are mutualism, commensalism, and predation.

Front

Define mutualism in the context of symbiotic relationships.

Back

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

Front

Define commensalism in the context of symbiotic relationships.

Back

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

Front

Define predation in the context of symbiotic relationships.

Back

Predation is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism (the predator) kills and eats another organism (the prey).

Front

Give an example of mutualism.

Back

An example of mutualism is nitrogen-fixing bacteria living in the roots of plants, where both the bacteria and the plants benefit.

Front

Give an example of commensalism.

Back

An example of commensalism is a mite living in the eyelashes of people, feeding on mascara without harming the person.

Front

Give an example of predation.

Back

An example of predation is a coyote capturing and eating a rabbit.

Front

What is the role of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in mutualism?

Back

Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use, while receiving shelter and nutrients from the plants.

Front

How does predation affect population dynamics in an ecosystem?

Back

Predation helps control the population of prey species, which can prevent overpopulation and maintain balance in the ecosystem.