Biological Association
A biological association refers to the relationship between different organisms within an ecosystem. These interactions can be mutualistic, where both species benefit, or antagonistic, where one species may harm another. Examples include the relationship between pollinators and flowering plants, where pollinators help plants reproduce while obtaining nectar.
In addition to mutualism and antagonism, biological associations can also be commensal, where one species benefits without affecting the other. An example of this is barnacles attaching to whales, gaining mobility and access to food while the whale remains largely unaffected. Understanding these associations is crucial for studying ecosystems and biodiversity.