Commensalism Examples

As stated in the previous blog post, commensalism is a symbiotic relationship in which one organism or species benefits and the other organism or species isn't harmed significantly. There are many relationships that fit into the symbiotic relationship category of commensalism.

The first example of Commensalism that I would like to discuss is...

orchids growing on branches of trees
Picture from: https://sciencestruck.com/examples-of-commensalism

Orchids Growing on Trees
This relationship is commensalistic due to the fact that the trees aren't harmed by the Orchids growing on the trees, but the Orchids are provided a host in which to live.

Orchids do not grow to be a large size therefore the tree isn't harmed significantly.

The second example of Commensalism that I would like to discuss is...

monarch butterfly and milkweed
Picture from: https://sciencestruck.com/examples-of-commensalism

The Monarch Butterfly and Milkweed
This relationship is commensalistic due to the fact that Milkweeds contain a poisonus chemical that is harmful to almost all species. The Monarch Butterfly can accept this glycoside. Therefore, when a bird eats the Monarch butterfly, it finds it harmful, and avoid eating the butterflys. All during this, the Milkweed isn't harmed.

The third example of Commensalism that I would like to discuss is...

burdock seeds on the fur of passing animals
Picture from: https://sciencestruck.com/examples-of-commensalism

Burdock Seeds on the Fur of Passing Animals
This relationship is commensalistic due to the fact that the Burdock Seeds will attach to passing animals, but will not harm the animals. Through this interaction, the animal isn't harmed but the plant has a way for its seeds to be spread therefore allowing the plants to be spread to other regions.

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