Symbiotic Relationships

 Differences

Similarities 

 Mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism are all types of symbiotic relationships. 

• Mutualism is a type of relationship where both organisms of different species rely on one another for nutrients, protection and other life funtions.
• Commensalism is a type of relationship between two organisms of different species where one of the organism benefits from the relationship and the other organism is unaffected. 
• Parasitism is a type of relationship in which one organism (the parasite) benefits at the expense of another organism (the host), which is harmed.

Although there are many differences between mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism, there are also some similarities. 

• All three of the relationships involve two different organisms, each from a different species. 
• In all three of the relationships, at least one of the organism benefits.

Examples of Symbiotic Relationships in the Desert Biome 

• Mutualism:The relationship between the mistletoe plant and the Phainopepla bird is one example of mutualism in the desert biome. The Phainopepla feeds on mistletoe berries and disperses the undigested seeds of these berries in the surrounding through its droppings.  In this way the mistletoe plant provides food to Phainopepla, while the Phainopepla helps mistletoe plant grow in the surroundings. 
• Commensalism: The cactus wren species builds its nest in cholla cactus.  While this is beneficial for the bird as it helps it keep its young ones safe from predators, the cacti species remains unaffected. 
• Parasitism:Mistletoe species living on host plants such as desert ironwood and fleas living on the bodies of coyotes would be an example of parasitism in the desert biome.