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What is symbiosis?

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Quick answer

Symbiosis is a close, long-term relationship between two different species. It can benefit both (mutualism), benefit one without harming the other (commensalism), or benefit one at the other's expense (parasitism) — shaping ecosystems everywhere. It's a close relationship between two different species.

Key things to understand

  1. It's a close relationship between two different species.
  2. Mutualism: both benefit (like bees and flowers).
  3. Commensalism: one benefits, the other is unaffected.
  4. Parasitism: one benefits at the other's expense.

People also ask

What is symbiosis?
A close, long-term interaction between two different species, which may help or harm each.
What are the types of symbiosis?
Mutualism (both benefit), commensalism (one benefits, one unaffected), and parasitism (one benefits, one harmed).
What's an example of symbiosis?
Bees and flowers (mutualism), or a tapeworm in a host (parasitism).

Part of the guide: Nature & Earth: Living Things and Rocks →