What is amensalism?

Amensalism

Amensalism is a type of biological interaction where one organism is harmed or inhibited, while the other organism is unaffected. It's often described as a 0/- interaction (zero for neutral, minus for negative). In essence, one species experiences negative consequences due to the presence or actions of another, but the other species neither benefits nor suffers.

• Mechanism: The harm or inhibition in <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/amensalism">amensalism</a> can occur through various means, including:

  • Competition for Resources: One organism might indirectly hinder another's access to resources like nutrients or space. While not actively competing, the dominant species' activity decreases resource availability for the other.
  • Chemical Inhibition (Allelopathy): One organism releases a chemical compound that negatively impacts the growth, survival, or reproduction of another organism. This is a common example in plant <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/allelopathy">allelopathy</a>.
  • Accidental Harm: One organism's actions may unintentionally harm another, without the first organism benefiting in any way.

• Examples:

  • Penicillium and Bacteria: The fungus Penicillium produces penicillin, which inhibits the growth of many bacteria. The fungus is unaffected by the presence of the bacteria, but the bacteria are harmed.
  • Black Walnut Trees: Black walnut trees release juglone into the soil, a chemical that inhibits the growth of many other plant species nearby. The walnut tree benefits from reduced competition but isn't directly using those resources; it simply removes the competition.
  • Large Trees and Smaller Plants: A large tree can shade smaller plants, depriving them of sunlight. The tree is not actively trying to harm the smaller plants; it's just a consequence of its size. This shading can be considered <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/shading">shading</a>, causing amensalism.
  • Grazing Cattle and Insects: Cattle grazing on a pasture can inadvertently crush insects living in the grass. The cattle aren't intentionally targeting the insects, but the insects are harmed by their presence.

• Significance: <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/amensalism">Amensalism</a> plays a role in shaping ecological communities. It influences species distribution, abundance, and community structure. It can also affect the evolution of species, as organisms adapt to avoid or tolerate amensalistic interactions.