Mutualism

For another use of the term see Mutualism (economic theory).

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In biology, mutualism is an interaction between two species in which both species derive benefit. Mutualisms can be lifelong interactions involving close physical and biochemical contact (known as symbiosis) such as those between trees and mycorrhizal fungi; they can also be briefer, non-symbiotic interactions, such as those between flowering plants and pollinators. Mutualisms may also be obligatory or non-obligatory (facultative). For example, bacteria known as rhizobia can reproduce either in the soil or in (usually) mutualistic symbiosis with legume plants. Mycorrhizal fungi, on the other hand, can be totally dependent on their plant hosts. Microbes often band together for mutual benefit in biofilms to break down solid food sources as in rusticles.

Related Topics:
Interaction - Species - Symbiosis - Mycorrhiza - Rhizobia - Microbe - Biofilms - Rusticle

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