AP Human Biology: Symbiotic Relationships

Symbiotic Relationships

Symbiotic Relationships describes close interactions between two or more different species. Many organisms are involved in symbiotic relationships because this interaction provides benefits to both species. However, there are types of symbiosis that are not beneficial and may in fact harm one or both of the species.

Mutualism

Mutualism occurs when both species benefit from the interaction. For example Madison is a scholar that always finds the time to make note cards that can be utilized in the quizzes and tests that are taken in Mr. Popes Biology class. I am a scholar that always creates a quizlet for AP Human Geography vocabulary words this allows Madison to memorize the vocabulary words and be prepared for upcoming

For example Noor is an excellent Spanish speaker in my class and thus I call on her for assistance. In class if there is an assignment that I could use some guidance in I ask Noor for help. This allows me to understand the work given and receive a good grade in my Spanish class. In this situation I am the only one reaping benefits I am not helping Noor by any means which is why this would be a form of commensalism.

Parasitism

Parasitism is a non-mutual relationship between species, where one species benefits while the other species is harmed. For example Angel is my little sister and she can be very parasitic at times. While eating food on the dining table she spills all kinds of foods and beverages on both the table and the floor which leaves work for me to clean. Being a scholar I am then forced to take time out of school work and clean up after my clumsy sister. In this relationship Angel, the parasite, is benefiting by having a clean environment while Jedidiah, the host, is loosing valuable time for school work.

For example when a whale gains barnacles it is not effected in neither a positive or negative light. On the other hand the barnacles are provided a shelter to live on and transportation. Another example would be the bees and flower, Bees fly from flower to flower gathering nectar, which they make into food, benefiting the bees. When they land in a flower, the bees get some pollen on their hairy bodies, and when they land in the next flower, some of the pollen from the first one rubs off, pollinating the plant. These two examples can be seen as facilitation because at least one of the organisms are being positively