Which relationship is defined as mutualism?

Mutualism is characterized by a relationship in which both species involved benefit from the interaction without causing harm to each other. This symbiotic relationship can manifest in various forms, such as pollination, where birds or insects facilitate the reproduction of plants while obtaining nectar in return, or in the case of certain bacteria that live in the guts of animals, aiding in digestion while receiving a safe habitat and nutrients.

In mutualistic relationships, the benefits are typically essential for the survival or reproductive success of the species involved, solidifying the importance of these interactions in ecological systems. This contrasts sharply with other types of relationships, such as parasitism or commensalism, where only one species benefits, or both species may be negatively impacted. These distinctions highlight the significance of mutualism in contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem stability.