Question

Compare and contrast mutualism and commnsalism. For both relationships, explain who does or does not benefit and who is or is not harmed.

Answer 1

Mutualism is the symbiotic relationship where both organisms in the relationship benefit. An example of this is with clown fish and sea anemones.

Commensalism is the symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits and the other is unaffected/unharmed. An example of this is with barnacles (benefit) on a whale (unaffected).