Commensal (Noun)
Meaning
Either of two different animal or plant species living in close association but not interdependent.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The clownfish and the sea anemone have a commensal relationship, where the fish receives protection from predators and the anemone benefits from the fish's waste.
- The remora fish has a commensal relationship with sharks, attaching itself to the shark's body and feeding on its leftover food.
- The oxpecker bird has a commensal relationship with the rhinoceros, landing on its back and feeding on ticks and other parasites.
- The orchid and the tree have a commensal relationship, where the orchid grows on the tree's branches and receives support, but does not harm or benefit the tree.
- The barnacle has a commensal relationship with the whale, attaching itself to the whale's skin and feeding on plankton and small crustaceans.