Interactions Between Organisms

In any ecosystem, all living organisms interact with each other, and these interactions can be categorised as interspecific (between different species) and intraspecific (within the same species).
Predator-prey relationships are one type of interspecific interaction. Predators directly affect the population size of their prey, and vice versa. For example, an increase in the number of foxes (predators) may reduce the rabbit (prey) population.
Symbiosis is another kind of interspecific interaction. It involves two species living closely together. This can be mutually beneficial (mutualism), detrimental to one species (parasitism) or beneficial to one species without affecting the other (commensalism).
Competition is a significant interaction both within and between species. It can happen as a result of limited resources such as food, light, or space.
Intraspecific competition is between organisms of the same species. This competition is typically more intense as they need exactly the same resources. For instance, two deer may competitively fight over the same mate.
Interspecific competition occurs between organisms of different species. They may compete for common resources. For instance, red and grey squirrels compete for the same food sources.
Competition can influence population size and distribution. By reducing resources availability, it leads to a natural control of population density.
Adaptation in organisms is a crucial aspect of interaction. Over the generations, organisms can adapt to their environment to increase their chances of survival and reproduction. These adaptations can be physical changes (camouflage), behavioural changes (nocturnal activities to avoid predators), or physiological changes (ability to digest certain types of food).
Interactions between organisms can lead to evolutionary changes over time. For instance, the ‘survival of the fittest’ principle is based on the idea that the organisms most adapted to their environment are more likely to survive, reproduce and pass on their genes to the next generations.
Understanding these interactions is useful to manage and conserve ecosystems. For instance, predator introduction may be used to control specific pest populations, or habitat preservation could help protect species that require specific environmental conditions.
Disturbances in these interactions can lead to imbalances in the ecosystem. For example, introduction of invasive species may disrupt the balance and negatively impact native species and their interactions.