Animal associations refer to the relationships and interactions between different species in an ecosystem. These associations can be mutualistic, where both species benefit, such as bees pollinating flowers, or commensal, where one species benefits while the other is unaffected, like barnacles attaching to whales. These interactions play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. For example, predators help control the population of prey species, preventing overgrazing and promoting biodiversity. Understanding these associations is essential for conservation efforts and ecosystem management.