Mutualism

Definition

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both organisms involved benefit from the interaction. In microbiology, mutualistic relationships often involve microorganisms and their hosts providing essential nutrients or protection.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mutualism is distinct from other symbiotic relationships such as commensalism and parasitism.
2. In lichens, mutualism occurs between fungi and photosynthetic organisms like algae or cyanobacteria.
3. Gut microbiota in humans exhibit mutualistic relationships by aiding in digestion and synthesizing vitamins.
4. Rhizobia bacteria form mutualistic relationships with leguminous plants by fixing atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for the plant.
5. Mycorrhizal fungi engage in mutualism with plant roots, enhancing nutrient uptake while receiving carbohydrates.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes mutualism from other types of symbiotic relationships?
• Describe an example of mutualism involving prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
• How do gut microbiota benefit their human host in a mutualistic relationship?

Related terms

Commensalism:

A symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed.

Parasitism: A symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of the other.

Symbiosis:

A close, long-term interaction between two different biological species.