Examples of Commensalism

Commensalism refers to a symbiotic relationship between two organisms, where one benefits without harming or benefiting the other.

16 Examples of Commensalism

Here are the examples of commensalism:

1.      Gobies and Host Sea Animals

Gobies change their color to match the animals they live on, gaining camouflage and protection, while the host animals are unaffected.

2.      Viceroy Butterflies and Monarch Butterflies

Viceroy butterflies mimic monarch butterflies, gaining protection from predators as they resemble the toxic monarchs.

3.      Orchids and Ferns

Orchids and ferns grow as epiphytes on other plants, utilizing the support, sunlight, and pollinators provided by the host plant without affecting it.

4.      Tree Frogs and Plants

Tree frogs use plants as a means of protection, utilizing their camouflage and foliage for shelter.

5.      Golden Jackals and Tigers

Golden jackals trail tigers to scavenge on the remains of their kills, without interfering with the tigers’ feeding.

6.      Remora Fish and Larger Animals

Remora fish attach themselves to larger animals such as sharks, mantas, and whales, benefiting from hitching a ride and feeding on extra food.

7.      Emperor Shrimp and Sea Cucumbers

Emperor shrimp latch onto sea cucumbers, gaining protection and transportation while the sea cucumbers are unaffected.

8.      Burdock Plant and Animals

Burdock plants produce spiny seeds that cling to the fur of animals or clothing of humans, aiding in seed dispersal without affecting the animals or humans.

9.      Sea Anemones and Clownfish

Clownfish take shelter in sea anemones, receiving protection from predators, while the clownfish clean the anemones and feed on their leftover food.

10.  Cattle Egrets and Cattle

Cattle egrets feed on insects stirred up by grazing cattle, gaining a food source while the cattle remain unaffected.

11.  Barnacles and Whales

Barnacles attach themselves to whales, utilizing their movement to access food sources while the whales remain unharmed.

12.  Nurse Plants and Seedlings

Nurse plants offer protection to seedlings from weather and herbivores, providing an opportunity for growth.

13.  Hermit Crabs and Snail Shells

Hermit crabs occupy empty snail shells, providing them shelter while the snails are unaffected.

14.  Mites and Humans

Species like Demodex folliculorum reside on human skin without causing harm, showcasing a commensal relationship.

15.  Caribou, Arctic Foxes, and Lichens

Caribou digging up lichens exposes them, which attracts reindeer. Arctic foxes follow the caribou path to feed on the exposed lichens.

16.  Oxpeckers and Grazing Animals

Oxpeckers feed on insects and ticks found on grazing animals, benefiting from the food source while keeping the animals clean and providing an alarm system.

Also Read Examples of Mutualism