Plants and animals interact in symbiotic relationships in various ways, including:
1. Mutualism: Both plants and animals benefit, such as:
- Clownfish and sea anemones (protection and food)
- Bees and flowers (pollination and nectar)
2. Commensalism: One species benefits, the other is unaffected, such as:
- Remora fish and sharks (food and transportation)
- Orchids and trees (support and shade)
3. Parasitism: One species benefits, the other is harmed, such as:
- Tapeworms and hosts (nutrition and harm)
- Aphids and plants (food and damage)
4. Symbiotic relationships can be:
- Obligate (essential for survival)
- Facultative (optional)
- Temporary or permanent
5. Examples:
- Coral and zooxanthellae (algae)
- Fungi and mycorrhizal plants
- Lichen (fungi and algae)
6. Symbiotic relationships can lead to:
- Co-evolution
- Specialization
- Increased fitness and survival
These interactions shape ecosystems, influence evolution, and demonstrate the interconnectedness of life on Earth.
