Relationships in the Ecosystem

Predators and PreyPredator – consumer that actively hunts other

living organisms.

Prey – consumed by predators.

Predator and prey populations are linked.

If prey population increases, predator population increases.

Symbiosis

Any relationship in which two species live closely together

3 types:

ParasitismCommensalismMutualism

Parasitism

Relationship in which one organism feeds on the tissues or body fluids of another.

One organism benefits and one organism is harmed.

Host - parasite feeds on this organism.

Ex. – ticks, lice, fleas, tapeworm.

PARASITISM

Commensalism

One organism benefits and the other is neither harmed nor helped.

Ex. – Whales & Barnacles – whales are not affect. The barnacles get a free ride & food.

COMMENSALISM

Mutualism

Both organisms benefit.

Some are necessary for the survival of both organisms.

Ex. – yucca plant & yucca moth – cannot survive without one another.

MUTUALISM