Definition:

Symbiosis is a close ecological relationship between the individuals of two (or more) different species.   Sometimes a symbiotic relationship benefits both species, sometimes one species benefits at the other's expense, and in other cases neither species benefits.

Ecologists use a different term for each type of symbiotic relationship:

Mutualism	--   both species benefit
Commensalism	--   one species benefits, the other is unaffected
Parasitism	--   one species benefits, the other is harmed
Competition	--   neither species benefits
Neutralism	--   both species are unaffected

The following table illustrates the correct use of these terms in interactions between Species "A" and Species "B".

"+" denotes benefit to the species

"0" denotes no positive or negative effect

"-" denotes an undesirable effect of the interaction.

Examples of Symbiotic Relationships in Insects:

Nutritional Symbiosis:

Ambrosia beetles       (webpage by Katy)       (webpage by Alex)

Termite fungus gardens

Parasol ants       (webpage by Heidi)

Cockroach endosymbionts

Shelter Symbiosis:

Ant mimics (inquilines)

Slavemaker ants       (webpage by Ken)

Gall insects

Transport Symbiosis:

Torsalo (Human bot flies)

Scelionid wasps

Pollination Symbiosis:       (webpage by Mary)

Nectar guides

Bottle gentians

Dung beetles and skunk cabbage

Yucca moths       (webpage by Marcia)

Bumblebees and scotch broom

Fig wasps       (webpage by Leiana)

Pseudocopulation in orchids       (webpage by Caroline)

Defensive Symbiosis       (webpage by Shannon)

Ants and acacias       (webpage by Bethany)

Aphid farmers       (webpage by Maya)

Mimicry and Crypsis       (webpage by Okema)

Good Buddies Webpage by Katie

Tomato Hornworm Webpage by Laura