key term - Mutualism

Definition

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship between two different species where both organisms benefit from each other's presence. They rely on each other for resources like food, shelter, protection, or reproduction.

Related terms

Commensalism:

Commensalism is another type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits while the other remains unaffected. One example is when birds build nests on trees without harming them.

Parasitism:

Parasitism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism (parasite) benefits at the expense of another organism (host). Fleas on dogs are an example of parasitic interaction.

Symbiosis: Symbiosis refers to any close and long-term interaction between two different species. It can include mutualism, commensalism, or parasitism.