bsc-symbiosis

Symbiosis

A close, long-term relationship between different species.

Sym= together, bio=life

“Sym” and “bio“ mean?

Creating new genetic material, enabling new metabolic capacities, and leading to the formation of new species

How is symbiosis a driving force for evolution?

Parasitism, Commensalism, Mutualism

Types of Symbiosis

Endosymbiont

Organisms that live inside another organism, often in a mutually beneficial relationship called endosymbiosis

Endosymbiotic Theory 

Theory stating eukaryotic cells originated from a symbiotic relationship between early prokaryotic cells 

Theorized one bacteria cell engulfed another bacteria cell, and the engulfed bacteria became the engulfer’s organelles

Explain the Endosymbiotic Theory.

Important bc this created chloroplasts, mitochondria, and nucleus, which have their individual sets of DNA

Why is the Endosymbiotic Theory relevant?

• On the root nodules of legumes; mutualistic relationship w/legume plant

• Benefit to plant: Rhiz undergoes nitrogen fixation which helps the plant grow by replenishing soil w/nit. 

• Benefit to bacterium: Low oxygen environment and source of reduced carbon

Describe the symbiotic relationship between Rhizobium and Legumes

• Benefit to plant: Helps plants increase nutrient absorption, which increases growth and protective effect

• Benefit to fungus: Gets carbs from plant and protective effect

Describe the symbiotic relationship between Mycorrhizae and Plants

A relationship between fungi and roots; fungi surrounds roots and grows between intercellular regions, which expands the root system of plants

Describe the symbiotic relationship called “Ectomycorrhizae”

Mutualism

A symbiotic relationship between organisms in which both benefit

Commensalism

A symbiotic relationship in which one benefits, the other unaffected.

Parasitism

A symbiotic relationship in which one benefits, and the other is harmed.

Absorb nutrients and pollutants from air, sensitive to pollution.

How do lichens act as bioindicators?