Question

Explain the concept of interdependence between organisms in an ecosystem using specific examples.

Answer 1

All organisms in an ecosystem depend upon each other. If the population of one organism rises or falls, then this can affect the rest of the ecosystem.

Three such relationships are:

Symbiosis
Symbiosis is the phenomenon by which two organisms maintain relationship with each other to be mutually benefitted.

In symbiotic mode, organisms develop a special relationship with certain other organisms to obtain nourishment. Organisms involved in this type of relationship are called as symbionts. e.g. Rhizobium bacteria and Leguminous plants are symbionts exhibiting symbiosis. Plants cannot utilize atmospheric nitrogen directly.

Parasitism
Parasitism is generally defined as a relationship between the two living species in which one organism is benefitted at the expense of the other. The organism that is benefitted is called the parasite, while the one that is harmed is called the host.

A few examples of parasites are tapeworms, fleas, and barnacles. Tapeworms are flatworms that are found attached to the insides of the intestines of animals such as cows, pigs, etc.. They feed on the host’s partly digested food, depriving it of the nutrients.

Predation
Predation is an interaction between members of two species in which members of one species capture, kill and eat up members of another species. The host is a term that is specifically related to parasitism. e.g. a snake is a predator to a mouse, but prey to a hawk.