Answer:
Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits while the other is neither harmed nor benefited. In the case of worms and plants, this relationship is evident. Worms, as they burrow through the soil, provide several benefits to plants. They enhance soil structure by creating channels, allowing better aeration and water infiltration. Additionally, worms break down organic matter, such as dead plant material, into nutrient-rich substances that can be absorbed by plant roots. This nutrient cycling facilitated by worms contributes to improved soil fertility, ultimately promoting plant growth and development. The presence of worms in the soil ecosystem thus offers a clear advantage to plants.
However, when considering the perspective of worms in this commensal relationship, the observed benefits are lacking. While plants benefit from the activities of worms, there is no apparent advantage or direct gain for the worms themselves. Nevertheless, this lack of observed benefit does not necessarily imply harm to the worms. In commensalism, the focus is on the absence of harm rather than the presence of benefits to the non-benefited organism. Consequently, worms seem to tolerate this relationship with plants without experiencing any negative effects.