Symbiosis

Symbiosis happens when two different species live closely together. Sometimes both species benefit from the partnership. A clownfish living in a sea anemone is a great example. The fish gets protection and the anemone gets cleaned.

Types of Symbiosis

There are three main types of symbiosis. Mutualism is when both species benefit. Commensalism is when one benefits and the other is not affected. Parasitism is when one benefits but the other is harmed.

Examples in Nature

Oxpecker birds sit on large animals and eat ticks off their skin. Both the bird and the animal benefit. Remora fish attach to sharks and eat leftover food scraps. Bees and flowers help each other when bees spread pollen while getting nectar.

Fun Facts

• Clownfish are covered in a special slime that protects them from sea anemone stings.
• Some ants protect acacia trees and in return the trees give the ants food and shelter.
• A lichen is actually two organisms, a fungus and an alga, living together.

Did You Know?

Your own body has a symbiotic relationship! Billions of helpful bacteria live in your gut and help you digest food.