Symbiosis Flashcards
What is symbiosis?
A co-evolved intimate relationship between members of two different species
What is parasitism?
One organism benefits whilst the other is harmed by the interaction
What is mutualism?
When both the organisms involved in the process of an interdependent relationship benefit from each other
What happens in parasitic relationships?
A parasite benefits in terms of energy or nutrients, where as its host is harmed by the loss of these resources
How is transmission of parasites to new hosts done?
Direct contact
Resistant stages
Vectors
Describe how parasites are transmitted through direct contact
Parasite passes from person to person during physical contact
Describe how parasites are transmitted through resistant stages
Able to survive adverse environmental conditions for long periods until they come into contact with a new host
Describe how parasites are transmitted through the use of a vector?
The parasite is carried from host to host by another organism
Why do some parasitic life cycles involve secondary hosts?
To allow them to complete their lifecycle
What do parasites often have?
A limited metabolism and can’t survive out of contact with a host
Describe what happens in mutualism
Both mutualistic partner species benefit in an interdependent relationship
Give examples of mutualism
Bacteria in the guts of many herbivores
Cellulose-digesting Protozoa
