noun
symbiosis
sim-by-OH-sis/ˌsɪmbaɪˈəʊsɪs/
A close, lasting relationship that often benefits both participants.
The clownfish and its host anemone live in a lasting symbiosis.
Etymology
“Together” and “life” give the image of living together, expressed in Greek by a word also associated with partners and companions. Biology applied this idea to a close association between different organisms.
In context
lichens are actually two organisms working together algae produce nutrients and fungi produce the root system and that relationship is symbiosis
More examples
- A close symbiosis develops between the theater and nearby restaurants.
- Certain fungi form symbioses with tree roots, exchanging nutrients.
- Their creative symbiosis keeps the longtime songwriting partners working together.
Forms
symbiosis · symbioses
symbiotic adjective — Involving a close, lasting relationship between participants.
Similar words
- partnership
- Usually involves deliberate cooperation rather than a naturally developing bond.
- interdependence
- Emphasizes reliance on each other, not necessarily a lasting association.