Commensalism
Commensalism is a positive interaction and a symbiotic relationship between two species in which one species benefits and the other neither benefits nor is harmed.
Three terms are used to describe different types of commensalism
- Inquilinism: When one species uses other species for shelter. Example: Woodpecker drilling a hole in cactus to use it as a nesting site. The cactus is unaffected while the woodpecker is benefited.
- Phoresy: Occurs when one organism uses a second organism for transportation. Example: The Bromeliad treefrog carry ostracods from one bromeliad plant to another.
- Metabiosis: Occurs when one organism uses something produced by the first, usually after its death. Example: Hermit crab using the shell of a dead gastropod for protection.
Other examples of Commensalism:
- Vultures feeds on the leftovers of kills of carnivores and other dead animals. It is a type of commensalism since vultures benefits without affecting the dead animals.
- The fish remora also called suckerfish, has a suction cup on top of its head. With the help of this it attaches itself to the shark and travels with it. It eats the leftovers of bigger fish's meals.
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