Search Dictionary



Version history

  • Current: Nov 8, 2020

Mutualism

A mutualism is an interation between two species, from which both species receive benefits.

A famous example of mutualism is the relationship between the clownfish and sea anemone (Fig). The clownfish eats small invertebrates that otherwise have potential to harm the sea anemone. The feces of the clownfish also provides nutrients to the sea anemone. Sea anemone thus receives benefits from the clownfish.

On the other hand, the clownfish is protected from predators by the anemone's stinging cells. It is probably the consequence of coevolution that the clownfish is immune to the stinging. The clownfish also receives benefits from the interation.

Other examples of mutualism includes:

  • Termites and the specialized protists that inhabit their guts [2].
  • Mycorrhiza [2].



Definitions in the literature

  • An interaction that benefits both species is a mutualism [1].
  • An interaction between two species in which both species benefit [2].
  • A symbiotic relationship in which both participating species benefit [3].

Images

Public Domain images will be uploaded here.