1. What symbiotic relationships are present in a coral reef ecosystem?

The two most common symbiotic relationships in a coral reef ecosystem would have to be
mutualism and commensalism. Mutualism talks about both species benefiting from each other. For
instance, one of the most critical mutualistic relationships is between the corals and algae. The
corals protect while the algae provide nutrients and pigment for the coral. On the other hand,
commensalism talks about one species benefiting from the relationship but not harmful. For
example, small fish hide from predators using corals or inside a jellyfish.

2. Commensalism can be a form of parasitism. Explain why and cite an example.

Commensalism can be considered parasitism because one of the two species uses the other to
benefit themselves. The only difference between them is that parasitism harms the other organism.
For example, in commensalism, the relationship between humans and trees. While we can create
furniture and decorations, the tree does not benefit from humans. In parasitism, the relationship
between tapeworms and humans is harmful to the latter. Tapeworms can travel in our bodies and
cause our organs to fail, which will eventually kill us. At the same time, humans will not benefit
from tapeworms.

3. Based on the picture above, explain and define what type of relationship this is and give 2
examples of why it is that symbiotic relationship by discussing how each individual
organism is directly affected by the other organism. Provide another example of organisms
sharing the same symbiotic relationship as the crocodile and bird.

Type of Relationship: Mutualism

The picture represents a mutualistic relationship because they both benefit from each other—the
bird benefits from this by eating the leftovers of what the crocodile ate. At the same time, the
crocodile benefits from this by keeping its mouth free from food stuck in its teeth or, worse,
infections.

Another example of mutualism is between fungus and algae. While algae provide food and
nutrients for photosynthesis, the fungus protects the algae.