Question

Differentiate between commensalism and mutualism.

Answer 1

Sr. No.	Commensalism	Mutualism
1.	An association between two different organisms in which one always benefits, but the other is neither benefited nor harmed.	An interaction between two species in which both are benefited.
2.	Only one organism benefits.	Both organisms benefit.
3.	The other organism is neither benefited nor harmed.	Both organisms receive benefits from the interaction.
4.	Positive interaction for one species and neutral for the other.	Positive interactions between both species are involved.
5.	For example: lianas, epiphytes, and epizoans.	For example: lichens, mycorrhiza, symbiotic nitrogen fixers, and zoochlorellae.