Differentiate between parasitism and symbiosis.
Solution:
Parasitism is an interaction between two species in which one species (parasite) derives benefit while the other species (host) is harmed. For example, ticks and lice (parasites) present on the human body represent this interaction where in the parasites receive benefit (as they derive nourishment by feeding on the blood of humans). On the other hand, these parasites reduce host fitness and cause harm to the human body.
Symbiosis is a close association between two or more different organisms of different species that may benefit each other.
Parasitism is an interaction between two species in which one species (parasite) derives benefit while the other species (host) is harmed. For example, ticks and lice (parasites) present on the human body represent this interaction where in the parasites receive benefit (as they derive nourishment by feeding on the blood of humans). On the other hand, these parasites reduce host fitness and cause harm to the human body.
Symbiosis is a close association between two or more different organisms of different species that may benefit each other.
For example:- Lichens in which two organisms algae and fungi remain in close association and benefit each other. Algae provide food to the fungi and fungi provide shelter, minerals and nutrients to the algae.