Mutualism
The acacia tree has developed very useful adaptations to discourage animals from eating its leaves. It developed long, sharp thorns and a symbiotic relationship with stinging ants. The ants live in acacia thorns they have hollowed out, and they feed on the nectar produced by the tree. When an animal takes a bite of leaves (and thorns), it also gets a mouthful of angry, stinging ants. The ants defend their homes from other insects as well, thus protecting the acacia tree. |
Parasitism
A tick on a water buffalo is a form of a parasitic symbiotic relationship. The tick sucks its hosts blood and the water buffalo is harmed because ticks can carry diseases which may make the animal weak and susceptible to predators. |
Commensalism
Vultures and lions have a commensalism relationship because the vulture feeds on the lions leftover prey and the lion is virtually unharmed. |