An example of commensalism in the tropical rainforest is the relationship between epiphytic plants, such as orchids and bromeliads, and the trees they grow on. These plants attach themselves to the branches of trees to access sunlight, which is scarce on the forest floor. The epiphytes benefit by gaining a better position for photosynthesis, while the trees are neither harmed nor benefited by this relationship. This type of interaction is a classic example of commensalism, where one organism benefits, and the other is unaffected.
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