Which type of relationship is characterized by one species benefiting while the other is not affected?

The correct answer reflects a relationship known as commensalism, which is a specific type of interaction between two species. In commensalism, one organism benefits from the relationship, while the other species is neither helped nor harmed. This relationship can be illustrated with examples such as barnacles attaching to a whale; the barnacles gain a mode of transportation and access to food, while the whale is largely unaffected by their presence.

In contrast, mutualism involves both species benefiting from the interaction, such as bees pollinating flowers while feeding on nectar. Predation is based on one organism benefiting (the predator) at the expense of another (the prey). Competition arises when two species vie for the same resources, which can be detrimental to both parties involved. Understanding these interactions helps to clarify the varied relationships species can have within an ecosystem.