Commensalism (Lat. Sit - Together, Mensa - Table)

Commensalism (from the Latin commensalis - common meal) is a type of interaction between two species in which one species benefits from coexistence, while the other species remains slightly affected. The term "commensalism" comes from the Latin words "sit" (together) and "mensa" (table), emphasizing the idea of ​​a communal meal.

An example of commensalism is the relationship between sharks and capes. Pilotfish are fish that live near sharks and feed on the leftover food that sharks leave behind after feeding. In this case, the capes get food, and the sharks do not receive any benefit or harm from the presence of the caps.

Commensalism can also be observed in the relationship between humans and dogs. Dogs have long lived next to people and receive food and care from them, while people receive protection and help in hunting from dogs. In this case, dogs benefit from coexistence with humans, while humans do not benefit from the presence of dogs.

Commensalism should not be confused with another type of interaction - parasitism. In parasitism, one species benefits at the expense of another species. In contrast, in commensalism, one species benefits while the other receives neither harm nor benefit.

Although commensalism is not the most common type of interaction in nature, it is an important factor for the conservation of biodiversity. It allows different species of animals to coexist in an ecosystem without competing with each other for resources.