question_answer 15)

Define the following terms and give one example of each: (a) Commensalism (b) Parasitism (c) Camouflage (d) Mutualism (e) Interspecific competition.  

Answer:

Term	Definition	Example
(a) Commensalism	Interspecific positive interaction in which smaller member, called commensal, is benefitted, while the larger member, called host, is neither benefitted nor harmed.	Orchid growing as an epiphyte on a mongo branch.
(b) Parasitism	Antagonistic interspecific interaction in which smaller parther, called parasite, is benefitted and draws food and shelter from the body of larger partner called host.	Plasmodium (malarial parasite) feeding upon liver cells and RBCs of man.
(c) Camouflage	In this an animal changes its body colour or body form and looks like another living organism or some inanimate object so as to defend itself or to capture the prey.	Praying mantis is green coloured so remains unnoticed in green grass.
(d) Mutualism	Interspecific positive interaction in which both the partners are mutually beneficial and increase the chances of survival of each other.	Lichens and mycorrhizae.
(e) Interspecific completion	Antagonistic interaction in which two or more members of different species compete for common resource like food, light, water, etc. which are in short supply.	Visiting flamingoes and resident fishes competing for zooplanktons in S. American lake.