How do symbiotic relationships affect ecosystems?

What are symbiotic relationships and how do they work?

Symbiotic relationships are interactions between two different species that live together. They can be mutualistic, commensal, or parasitic.

Can you give me examples of each type of symbiotic relationship?

Sure! In mutualism, both species benefit, like bees and flowers. In commensalism, one benefits while the other is unaffected, like barnacles on whales. In parasitism, one benefits at the other's expense, like ticks on mammals.

How do these relationships impact ecosystems?

They play crucial roles in maintaining balance, promoting biodiversity, and influencing population dynamics within ecosystems.

What happens if one species in a symbiotic relationship goes extinct?

The extinction can disrupt the relationship, potentially leading to population declines or extinctions of the other species involved.