Question

The term "commensals" refers to organisms that:

a) Benefit from the host organism
b) Neither benefit nor harm the host organism
c) Harm the host organism
d) Are exclusively parasitic

Answer 1

Commensals are organisms involved in a commensalism relationship, where they benefit without affecting the other species. This contrasts with parasitism (where one organism is harmed) and mutualism (where both benefit).

Step-by-step explanation:

The term commensals refers to organisms in a symbiotic relationship where one species benefits while the other is not affected. This is known as commensalism. For instance, birds making nests in trees represent a commensal relationship; the tree remains unharmed while the bird gains protection for its offspring. Parasitism, on the other hand, is a relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of the host organism. Similarly, mutualism describes a symbiotic relationship where both organisms involved benefit.