In a commensal relationship, how does one species benefit?

Study for the NES Elementary Education Subtest 2 with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

In a commensal relationship, one species gains benefits while the other species is neither helped nor harmed significantly. This dynamic allows one organism to thrive or receive resources—such as food, shelter, or transportation—without imposing a detrimental effect on its partner. For example, birds nesting in trees can take advantage of the tree's branches for a safe home while the tree remains unharmed by their presence. This definition aligns perfectly with the notion of a commensal relationship, where the interaction is beneficial to only one of the parties involved, creating a scenario in which one species can thrive without causing adverse effects to the other.

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