What is the term for a symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits and the other is harmed? 🔊
The term for a symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits and the other is harmed is called parasitism. In parasitic interactions, the parasite derives nourishment or benefits from a host organism, often causing harm or disease in the process. Examples include tapeworms in the intestines of animals or mistletoe plants that draw water and nutrients from trees. Understanding parasitism is crucial for ecology, as it impacts species interactions and can influence population dynamics and ecosystem health.
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