What is the meaning of Symbiosis?

Term symbiosis refers to close and prolonged interaction between organisms of different species for the benefit of one or both organism. \r
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There are several types of symbiosis based on the relation of benefit between organisms. Different types of symbiosis are:\r
• Commensalism\r
• Parasitism\r
• Mutualism\r
• Endosymbiosis and Ectosymbiosis\r
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Commensalism is the mutual relationship where only one of the organisms gets benefits without harming the other organism during the relationship. It is a one-sided symbiotic relationship.\r
Example: Relationship between remora fish and large fishes. \r
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In parasitism type of relationship, one organism benefits from the relationship by harming or damaging the other organism. \r
Example: Tapeworms residing inside their hosts consumes partially digested food, affecting the host.\r
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Mutualism is a close relationship where both the organisms gets benefit with the relationship. \r
Example: Relationship of dog and human is the best example where the dogs provide protection and companionship and the humans provide food and shelter to dog.\r
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Endosymbiosis is type of symbiosis where one species living inside another one.\r
Example: Protozoans living inside the termites, helps them in digesting wood.\r
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Ectosymbiosis is type of symbiosis where one species living on the surface of the other species.\r
Example: Lice feed on the skin, blood, or oil secretions of the host harming them.\r