COMMENSALISM Meaning and
Definition
-
Commensalism is a biological term used to describe a type of symbiotic relationship between two organisms, where one organism benefits, and the other organism is unaffected. In this type of interaction, the organism that benefits is referred to as the "commensal," while the unaffected organism is known as the "host." It is important to note that this relationship is often specific to a certain habitat or environment.
The commensal organism obtains various advantages from the host, such as shelter, transportation, or access to resources, without causing any harm or benefit to the host. This type of relationship is characterized by one-sided benefits, where the commensal organism thrives while the host remains relatively unharmed. However, it is essential to distinguish commensalism from parasitism, where the host is negatively affected.
Examples of commensalism can be found in various ecosystems and among various species. For instance, certain small fish may seek shelter among the tentacles of a sea anemone, which provides protection from predators. Similarly, barnacles attach themselves to the backs of whales, benefiting from the movement of the host while not causing any harm.
Overall, commensalism is a form of interaction in which one organism benefits while the other remains unaffected. This type of symbiotic relationship is prevalent in nature and contributes to the overall diversity and stability of ecosystems.
-
Symbiosis, mutualism, the living together of two organisms, neither of which is parasitic on the other, to their mutual advantage.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for COMMENSALISM
- xommensalism
- vommensalism
- fommensalism
- dommensalism
- cimmensalism
- ckmmensalism
- clmmensalism
- cpmmensalism
- c0mmensalism
- c9mmensalism
- conmensalism
- cokmensalism
- cojmensalism
- comnensalism
- comkensalism
- comjensalism
- commwnsalism
- commsnsalism
- commdnsalism
- commensalizm
- comensalism
- commensilism
- commensative
- commershalism
Etymology of COMMENSALISM
The word "commensalism" is derived from the Latin word "commensalis", which combines the prefix "com-" meaning "together" and the word "mensa" meaning "table". The original Latin term referred to people who shared a table or a meal together. In the context of ecology, "commensalism" was coined in the late 19th century to describe a type of symbiotic relationship between two organisms, where one organism benefits and the other organism is neither harmed nor benefited. The word was chosen to express the notion of two organisms peacefully coexisting, much like individuals sharing a meal together.
Similar spelling words for COMMENSALISM
- commensally,
- common soldier,
- communism,
- commensurable,
- Common Calamint,
- common seal,
- common starling,
- commensurate,
- common salt,
- common shares,
- commensal.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
