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symbiosis

n. C / U
C1 Advanced US //ˌsɪmbaɪˈoʊsəs// UK //sˌɪmbaɪˈəʊsɪs// sym·bio·sis

n. a close relationship between two different living things where both benefit. It is like a partnership in nature where each side helps the other survive.

n. a close and often long-term biological interaction between two different biological organisms, typically providing a benefit to both. In ecology, it describes a mutualistic relationship where both species derive a net benefit.


SIMPLE

The relationship between bees and flowers is a perfect example of symbiosis.

COMPLEX

The study of coral reefs reveals a complex symbiosis between the polyps and the algae that live within their tissues, a partnership essential for the reef's survival in nutrient-poor waters.

Synonyms
Origin

From Ancient Greek συμβίωσις (sumbíōsis, “living together”). By surface analysis, sym- + -biosis.

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