A symbiotic relationship is directly linked to the word symbiosis. Primarily symbiosis is described as the interaction or process between two or more biological species. The term was initiated in 1877 and it has been used ever since whenever two different species form a relationship.
Symbiotic relationships can be quite different from each other and they are classified as mutualism, parasitism, mimicry and commensalism. Practically, species can interact with each other, help each other or fight for survival. The whole symbiosis process has been studied and examined by specialists over the years. The role of a symbiotic relationship might lead to co-evolution. Some flowers and insects for instance, interact because they need each other. Let’s consider bees and flowers; nectar and pollen are critical for the survival of these two very different species, and the process only works through mutual consent.
A symbiotic relationship can be extremely different and it can manifest in other species as well. Parasitism for example, is one way of symbiosis from which only one individual wins and the other is severely damaged. Hence, they do not cooperate and it is compared with the battle of the fittest.
The world’s fauna and flora are constantly connected in order to ensure survival. However, there is another type of symbiosis encountered in humans. People relate to everything that is different from their species. Animals, plants, insects, bacteria, they all have at some point have a relationship with the human. A symbiotic relationship between an individual and a domestic pet like a cat or dog for example, is focused on mutualism. Both species have benefits; a cat gives peace and love for the individual, and in return she gets affection, food and shelter. Thus, everybody wins.
Neutralism is the lack of a symbiotic relationship, where two or more species cross paths but have no interaction whatsoever.
Taking advantage of one species and using it for a certain purpose is the main definition of symbiosis. Basically, humans cannot live without symbiosis because they need to use plants and animals for different purposes, like food for example. Hence, at least one species wins. Overall, the world is indeed a mysterious place in which species use the other to ensure survival. Plants use insects, insects are used by small animals, animals are eaten by people and sometime even people get eaten by certain mammals. As you can see, symbiosis is an entire process, a cyclical one to be more specific. Everything is connected to a symbiotic relationship sooner or later. In order to guarantee continued existence humans take full advantage of other species. In their world, herbivore animals and insects do the same, they interact with plants to survive.