Question

Discuss the various types of positive interactions between species.

Answer 1

Positive interaction

The type of interspecific interaction in which either or both the species is benefitted and none of them is affected is termed as positive interaction. It can be of two types:

● Mutualism

● Commensalism

Mutualism

Mutualism is a relationship between two species in which both the species are benefitted. They can not survive without each other.
Lichens are a mutual association between algae or cyanobacteria (mycobiont) and fungi (phycobiont). The algae provides food to the fungi while the fungi provides shelter to the algae.

Commensalism

Commensalism is an interspecific interaction where one member of the association is benefited while the other member remains unaffected.
An orchid growing on the bark of a mango tree is an example of commensalism where the orchid is benefited as it gets physical support from the tree without harming or benefiting the tree.