Species Interactions

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to species interactions, including types of symbiosis and competition.

Mutualism

A positive/positive relationship where both species benefit.

Commensalism

A positive/neutral relationship where one species benefits and the other is unaffected.

Antagonism

A negative/positive relationship where one species harms another.

Competition

A negative/negative interaction where both species struggle for limited resources.

Intraspecific Competition

Competition among individuals of the same species.

Interspecific Competition

Competition among individuals of different species.

Niche

The total range of all abiotic and biotic conditions tolerated and all resources used by a species.

Fundamental Niche

The niche that a species could potentially occupy.

Realized Niche

The subset of the fundamental niche that a species actually occupies.

Competitive Exclusion Principle

Complete competitors cannot coexist.

Herbivory

The act of animals eating plants.

Parasitism

A relationship where one organism derives some or all nutrients from another living source.

Pathogens

Microorganisms that cause disease.

Symbiosis

A close association between two or more organisms.

Mycorrhizal Fungi

Fungi that form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, providing water and nutrients.

Pollination Syndrome

Suites of floral characteristics associated with different modes of pollination.

Chemical Defenses

Secondary metabolites plants produce to protect against herbivory.