Question

As a buffalo graze they disturb insects in the grass causing them to jump out of the way, for example grasshoppers. Many bird spices will follow the buffalo as they graze and will feed in the fleeing insects. Does the buffalo benefit from the birds actions? Does the bird benefit from the buffalos actions? is either harmed? what type of relationship is this?

Answer 1

In this scenario, the relationship between the buffalo and the birds is an example of a mutualistic relationship, although it can also be considered a commensal relationship depending on the specifics of how both species are affected.

1. Benefits to the birds: The birds benefit directly from the buffalo's grazing behavior, as the disturbance caused by the buffalo causes the insects (like grasshoppers) to flee, making them easier targets for the birds to catch and eat.

2. Benefits to the buffalo: The buffalo may not gain a direct benefit from the birds' actions. However, indirectly, the presence of birds can help control insect populations around the buffalo, which could reduce the likelihood of pests that may bother or harm the buffalo.

3. Harm to either party: Generally, there is no significant harm to either party in this relationship. The birds gain food without harming the buffalo, and the buffalo are not adversely affected by the birds feeding on insects.

In summary, the birds benefit from the buffalo's grazing (mutualism), and the buffalo may experience some indirect benefits (though it primarily benefits the birds). Since the buffalo is not negatively impacted, this can also be viewed as a commensal relationship, where one species benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed.