Mutualism
A relationship in which both organisms benefit from a symbiotic relationship.
Mutualism:Lesser Long Nosed Bat & Saguaro
The bat is allowed to drink the nectar from the saguaro flowers, and the saguaro, which cannot self-pollinate, has it’s pollen spread from plant to plant.
Parasitism
A relationship in which one organism benefits and the other is harmed
Parasitism: Kangaroo Rat and fleas
The fleas, of which there can be many kinds, live on the rat’s skin and siphon blood, which can introduce disease to the rat.
Commensalism
A relationship in which one organism benefits and the other is unharmed
Commensalism: Gilded Flicker and Saguaro Cactus
The Gilded Flicker, for a nest, excavates a hole inside the saguaro to create a nest. However, although this may look harmful, it doesn’t hurt the cactus. The saguaro secretes a sap that hardens, forming a watertight seal to prevent water loss, resulting in no harm to the cactus.