Commensalism [ˈkəˈmensəˌlizəm]
Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism receives a form of benefit whilst inducing little or no damage to the other. The latter organism does not recieve any benefit from the interaction. The commensal interaction occurs frequently between a larger host and a smaller organism. The host organism is unchanged, while the benefiting species may demonstrate good structural adaptation, still remaining consistent with its habits.
Types of Commensalism Relationships
Phoresy
This interaction occurs when smaller organisms attach to a larger organism for transportation reasons. The smaller organism derives benefit from the other organism and the larger organism is unaffected.
For example, Pseudoscorpions attaching themsleves onto mammals.
Inquilinism
This commensalistic relationship occurs when an animal characteristically lives commensally in the dwelling of another organism/species without causing any detriment to the host.
For example, some mosquitoes live in the fluid held in the pitchers of pitcher plants. They benefit from the protection of the pitcher and use nutrients from prey that were caught by the plant.
Metabiosis
This interaction occurs when an organism depends on another for the development of an environment that it can inhabit.
For example, maggots consume and develop on corpses and carcasses.