What Is an Example of Commensalism in a Savanna?
An example of a commensalism relationship in the savanna is the relationship between lions and hyenas: lions kill and consume certain animals, then hyenas feed on the remains, enjoying the benefits of free food without harming the lions. In the savanna, as with other ecosystems, commensalism is classified as a symbiotic relationship. This type of relationship refers to the interactions between two different types of species; one species derives a benefit from the interaction with another, while the second species receives neither benefit nor harm from the relationship.
Commensalism appears in all areas of the living world. It exists in relationships among all living organisms, including plants and animals. This type of symbiotic relationship appears in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. In the hot and tropical climates of savannas, commensalism exists among many species. In the savannas of Eastern Africa and the Serengeti Plains, commensalism among land mammals proves particularly beneficial.
Many different types of land-dwelling grazing animals, including gazelle and antelope, share the same breeding and feeding territory. They feed on the many types of vegetation in the desert biome, which include grasses and leaves. Each species has a distinct preference for certain types of food, reducing the amount of competition for resources among animals. What tastes bitter or sour to one species, for instance, tastes fresh and flavorful to others.
