Symbiosis

Define symbiosis

The co-evolved intimate relationships between members of two different species

Name the two types of symbiosis

-Parasitism

-Mutualism

Describe parasites

A parasite will benefit in terms of energy or nutrients, where its host is harmed by the loss of these resources

Parasites often have a limited metabolism and cannot survive out of contact with the host

Some parasitic life cycles involve intermediate (secondary) hosts to allow them to complete their lifecycle

How are parasites transmitted to new hosts

through

-Direct contact- fleas and lice

-Resistant stages- larvae, and eggs can survive adverse conditions

-Vectors- mosquitoes transferring the protozoa that causes malaria to humans

Define ‘Mutualism’

When both partner species benefit in an interdependent relationship

EXAMPLE- bacteria living in the digestive system of cows, helping cows digest all of the plant material they eat