Species Interactions and Relationships

A set of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to species interactions including predation, parasitism, competition, and various types of symbiotic relationships.

Parasitism

A relationship where the parasite benefits by exploiting a specific host species, which is harmed.

Predation

A relationship where the predator benefits by eating all or part of the prey species, which is then harmed.

Commensalism

A relationship where one species benefits while the other remains unaffected.

Mutualism

A relationship where both species benefit from the interaction and are dependent on each other for resources.

Ectoparasite

Parasites that live outside of the host's body and are adapted to attach and obtain nourishment.

Endoparasite

Parasites that live inside the host's body and obtain nourishment and habitat space.

Ammensalism

A rare interaction where one species is harmed while the other remains unaffected.

Competition

A relationship where both species are harmed as they use energy fighting for limited resources.

Principle of competitive exclusion

The principle that two species cannot occupy the same niche indefinitely because one will use resources more efficiently.

Character displacement

A process where similar species evolve unique traits that allow them to exploit different parts of the niche.

Resource partitioning

A strategy that allows competing species to divide the niche in either time or space to reduce competition.

Micropredation

A type of predation involving small organisms that feed on a host without killing it.

Host

An organism that is exploited by a parasite for nutrients or shelter.

Vector

An organism that transmits a parasite to a host, often while feeding.