Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
amensalism
Noun
/ˌæ.mɛnˈsæl.ɪ.zəm/
Definition
Amensalism is a biological interaction in which one organism is harmed or inhibited, while the other is unaffected.
Examples
- The growth of large trees can create amensalism for the smaller plants beneath them, stifling their growth.
- Amensalism can be observed in coral reefs, where sponges can overshadow and inhibit the algae growing underneath.
Meaning
In this type of interaction, one species negatively impacts another without any benefit to itself. It typically occurs in ecological contexts, such as when larger plants overshadow smaller ones, blocking their sunlight.
Synonyms
- Negative interaction
- Competitive inhibition
