Biomes And Ecosystems Questions Medium
Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship between two organisms where one organism benefits while the other is neither harmed nor benefited. In this relationship, one organism, known as the commensal, benefits by utilizing resources or shelter provided by the other organism, known as the host, without causing any harm or benefit to the host.
An example of commensalism is the relationship between cattle egrets and grazing cattle. Cattle egrets are birds that often follow grazing cattle. As the cattle move through the grass, they disturb insects, which the egrets feed on. The egrets benefit by obtaining an easy source of food, while the cattle are not affected by the presence of the birds.