make this : Symbiotic Relationships in Ocean Creatures

Question

Did you know that little fish called wrasses willingly climb into larger creatures’ mouths to clean their teeth (Kranking 24-27)? What about the fact that tiny algae are an important part of keeping coral reefs colorful and alive (Wexler 8)? Mutualistic symbiotic relationships help many ocean species survive and thrive. Examples of these types of relationships in the ocean will be highlighted throughout this paper. To introduce this concept, the definition of symbiotic relationships will be explained in the next paragraph.
What Are Symbiotic Relationships?
Symbiotic relationships come in three primary forms, commensalism, parasitism, and mutualism. Commensalism is a relationship where one member benefits, while the other is not affected at all. This can be when one creature benefits from something like food or protection, while the other gets nothing in return. Parasitism is when one organism benefits while the other organism is harmed. Mutualism is defined as when “both members of the association are benefited by their living together” (“Symbiosis”). In these relationships, the organisms both benefit, often in different ways. Although all three types of symbiotic relationships are interesting, mutualism (specifically in ocean creatures), will be explored with several examples in the following sections.
Symbiosis in the Ocean
Mutualism can be seen all across the ocean. For example, the moray eel has its teeth cleaned by tiny fish called cleaner wrasses. The wrasses get a meal from the leftover food in the eel’s mouth, and the eels get a free teeth cleaning (and do not eat the wrasses as they are working)! Another example is the yellow watchman goby, which helps the blind pistol shrimp see. This is achieved through a process where the goby and shrimp cohabitate in a burrow, and the shrimp spends its time digging and keeping the burrow all clear. While the shrimp is busy digging, the goby is on alert and looking out for predators. To do this, “the shrimp always keeps one of its feelers on the goby's tail. If the goby sees danger, it turns to duck into the safety of the burrow. The shrimp feels the flick of the fish's tail and ducks in, too” (Kranking 24-27). Talk about an awesome friendship! Another interesting mutualistic symbiotic relationship is with microorganisms like bacteria and protozoa. They help break down food for many ocean and land creatures, and get a free meal out of it (Kranking 24-27). As you can see, there are many types of mutualistic symbiotic relationships in the ocean. Yet, the question that remains is what happens when these relationships are threatened.
Symbiosis in Danger- Algae and Coral
When one organism in a mutualistic symbiotic relationship is negatively affected, both organisms suffer. This can be seen in the relationship between algae and coral. Algae and coral have a mutualistic symbiotic relationship where the coral will store algae in their tissues, and in return, the algae receives nutrients from the coral. Due to the rising temperature of the ocean, coral often will get rid of their algae. This displaces the algae and can lead to the ultimate death of the coral. The coral have an interesting response to this, and to “produce a glowing display” (Wexler 8). Researchers suggest that this display could be an effort for the coral to try to attract their lost algae to save themselves (Wexler 8). This example shows that mutualistic symbiotic relationships are often necessary for the survival of both organisms.
The survival of many organisms relies on mutualistic symbiotic relationships. From eels, to piston shrimp, to tiny algae, mutualistic symbiotic relationships can be found in all shapes and sizes in the ocean. From the Pacific to the Atlantic, ocean creatures are relying on each other as a part of these aquatic teams. The next time you visit the ocean on vacation, put your goggles on and take a look in the water; you might see a symbiotic relationship right at your feet!
(but about Marine Habitats)

Answer 1

Symbiotic Relationships in Marine Habitats

Did you know that certain types of sea anemones offer a safe home for clownfish, while receiving protection in return? Or that seagrass meadows provide critical habitat for a host of marine life, while those same creatures help maintain healthy seagrass ecosystems? Mutualistic symbiotic relationships play a vital role in the resilience and diversity of marine habitats. Throughout this paper, we will highlight examples of these fascinating relationships that contribute to the balance of marine ecosystems. To start, let's define what symbiotic relationships are.

What Are Symbiotic Relationships?
Symbiotic relationships can be categorized into three main types: commensalism, parasitism, and mutualism. Commensalism involves one organism benefiting at no cost to the other, such as barnacles attaching to a whale’s skin, gaining mobility and nourishment while the whale remains unaffected. Parasitism, on the other hand, benefits one organism while harming the other, like when a lamprey latches onto a fish to consume its blood. Finally, mutualism is characterized by an arrangement where both organisms benefit from their association. This interconnectedness is evident in many marine habitats, making mutualism particularly compelling for exploration.

Symbiosis in Marine Habitats
Mutualism can be observed across various marine habitats. Take the relationship between clownfish and sea anemones, for example. Clownfish seek refuge among the venomous tentacles of the anemone, which provides protection from predators. In return, the clownfish helps keep the anemone clean by removing debris and parasites, and offers nutrients through its waste. Another noteworthy example occurs within coral reefs, where coral polyps and zooxanthellae (a type of algae) share a mutualistic relationship. The coral provides a sheltered environment and essential nutrients for the zooxanthellae, while the algae conduct photosynthesis, supplying oxygen and energy for the coral in the process.

A different, yet equally fascinating, mutualistic relationship exists in mangrove ecosystems. Mangrove trees, with their complex root systems, provide a nursery habitat for many fish species. In turn, these juvenile fish contribute to the health of mangroves by enhancing nutrient cycling through their waste, which supports the overall productivity of the habitat.

Symbiosis in Danger: The Impact of Climate Change
The health of mutualistic symbiotic relationships is threatened by various environmental stressors, particularly climate change. For instance, rising ocean temperatures and increased carbon dioxide levels can lead to coral bleaching, which occurs when corals expel their zooxanthellae due to stress. This severing of the relationship can leave corals vulnerable and significantly impact marine biodiversity, as they rely on this partnership for nutrition and stability. Without the assistance of their algal partners, corals struggle to survive, which in turn affects the myriad species that depend on healthy coral reefs for shelter and food.

Similarly, in seagrass meadows, pollution and sedimentation can degrade the habitat, affecting the fish and invertebrates that rely on these ecosystems. As these disruptions unfold, the delicate balance of mutualistic relationships is put at risk, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect marine habitats.

In conclusion, mutualistic symbiotic relationships form the backbone of many marine ecosystems, showcasing the interconnectedness of life beneath the waves. From clownfish and sea anemones to mangroves and juvenile fish, these relationships illustrate the balance of nature at work. As we continue to explore and understand marine habitats, fostering appreciation and protection for these essential connections will be critical for the sustainability of our oceans. So, the next time you find yourself by the sea, take a moment to look closely; you might just witness a remarkable symbiotic relationship thriving right beneath the surface!