kommensalizmus

Kommensalizmus is a type of symbiotic relationship between two different species of organisms where one species benefits and the other is neither harmed nor helped. It is one of the three main types of symbiosis, alongside mutualism where both species benefit, and parasitism where one species benefits at the expense of the other. The term "kommensalizmus" comes from the Latin word "commensalis," meaning "sharing a table."

In a kommensalistic relationship, the organism that benefits is called the commensal, and the organism that is unaffected is called the host. This interaction can manifest in various ways. For instance, one species might use another for transportation, such as barnacles attaching themselves to whales. The barnacles gain a place to live and feed as the whale moves through nutrient-rich waters, while the whale is generally unaffected by the barnacles' presence. Another example is epiphytism, where plants like orchids grow on trees. The orchids get sunlight and support from the tree, but they do not take nutrients from it, thus not harming the tree.

Kommensalistic interactions are common in nature and can be observed across diverse ecosystems, from marine environments to terrestrial forests. Identifying these relationships can sometimes be challenging because the host's lack of observable benefit or harm can make the interaction seem passive. However, understanding kommensalizmus is crucial for comprehending the complex web of interactions that sustain ecosystems and biodiversity.