Explain how parasitism differs from commensalism.
Parasitism is a relationship where one organism, the parasite, benefits while the other organism, the host, is harmed. The parasite uses the host for resources such as food, shelter, and reproduction, which can cause damage or even death to the host. For example, a tick feeding on a dog is a parasite.
Commensalism is a relationship where one organism benefits, but the other organism is not affected positively or negatively. For example, birds nesting in trees benefit from the shelter and support provided by the tree, but the tree is not affected by the presence of the birds. In commensalism, one organism benefits without hurting or helping the other organism.
In summary, parasitism is a relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of the other organism, while commensalism is a relationship where one organism benefits without affecting the other organism.
Parasitism and commensalism are both types of symbiotic interactions between two different species. However, they differ in the impact they have on each species involved.
Parasitism is a relationship where one organism, called the parasite, benefits at the expense of another organism, known as the host. The parasite obtains nutrients, shelter, and other necessary resources from the host, often causing harm or even death to the host in the process. Examples of parasites are ticks, fleas, and tapeworms.
On the other hand, commensalism is a relationship where one organism benefits, while the other organism is neither helped nor harmed. In commensalism, the benefiting organism, called the commensal, obtains resources or support from the other organism, known as the host, without affecting the host's well-being or survival. An example of commensalism is a bird using a tree for nesting and perching without having any impact on the tree's health.
To summarize, the main difference between parasitism and commensalism lies in the impact on the host organism. Parasitism involves harm or negative effects on the host, while commensalism does not harm or benefit the host organism.