Question

Differentiate between commensalism and mutualism.

Answer 1

Sr. No.	Commensalism	Mutualism
1.	It is an association between two different organisms in which one always benefits, while the other is neither benefited nor harmed.	It is an interaction between two different species in which both organisms are benefited.
2.	In this type of interaction, only one organism receives a benefit.	In this type of interaction, both organisms involved receive a benefit.
3.	The other organism in the relationship is neither benefited nor harmed by the interaction.	Both organisms receive specific benefits from the interaction with each other.
4.	It is considered a positive interaction for one species and a neutral interaction for the other species.	It involves positive interactions between both species that are involved in the relationship.
5.	Common examples of this interaction include lianas, epiphytes, and epizoans.	Common examples of this interaction include lichens, mycorrhizae, symbiotic nitrogen fixers, and zoochlorellae.