Species Interaction Symbiosis Symbiosis Means living together Interaction

Species Interaction Symbiosis

Symbiosis • Means “living together” • Interaction between two species where at least one benefits – Some organisms are permanently dependent on others for survival • Three types – Mutualism – Commensalism – Parasitism

Mutualism • Both species benefit – Example: Humming bird and flower • Hummingbird gets food and flower gets pollinated

Commensalism • One species benefits and the other is not helped nor is it harmed – Example: Remora on a shark.

Parasitism • One organism living in or on another organism and causes harm – Parasite: organism that benefits – Host: organism that is harmed – Example: fleas on dogs

Symbiosis Practice Which type of symbiosis is it?

Commensalism • Remora Fish and Shark – Remora fish attaches itself to the underside of shark without harming the shark – Remora eats leftover bits of food from the sharks meals – Remora also gets protection from predators

Parasitism • Mistletoe and trees – Mistletoe grows on trees like Palo Verde – Mistletoe takes nutrients from trees • Causes harm to Palo Verde Host: Trees (Palo Verde) Parasite: Mistletoe

Mutualism • Cow and bacteria – Bacterial live in cow’s stomach and helps breakdown plant matter s r e tn r a p ! h t t i f o e B n be

Symbiosis = Adaptation? • Adaptation is a behavior or physical characteristic that helps an organism survives. • How does symbiosis help organisms survive? – Gives advantage • Protection from predators • Easier access to food

Symbiosis is a lifesaver