For example, two species of birds may compete for nesting sites, or two species of plants may compete for water and nutrients in the soil. Competition can lead to the decline of one or both species, or it can drive the evolution of new adaptations that allow the species to better compete for resources.
Predation: Predation occurs when one animal (the predator) hunts and eats another animal (the prey). Predation can have a significant impact on prey populations, and it can also drive the evolution of new adaptations that allow prey species to avoid being eaten.
For example, some prey species have evolved camouflage or warning coloration to avoid being seen by predators, while others have developed speed or agility to escape from predators.
Herbivory: Herbivory occurs when animals feed on plants. Herbivory can have a significant impact on plant populations, and it can also drive the evolution of new adaptations that allow plants to resist being eaten.
For example, some plants have evolved thorns or toxins to deter herbivores, while others have evolved to reproduce rapidly to compensate for the loss of leaves or stems to herbivores.
Parasitism: Parasitism occurs when one organism (the parasite) lives on or in another organism (the host) and benefits from the relationship at the host's expense. Parasitism can have a significant impact on host populations, and it can also drive the evolution of new adaptations that allow hosts to resist parasitism.
For example, some hosts have evolved immune systems to fight off parasites, while others have evolved behavioral adaptations to avoid contact with parasites.
Mutualism: Mutualism occurs when two species benefit from their interaction with each other. Mutualistic relationships can be very important for both species involved, and they can drive the evolution of new adaptations that enhance the benefits of the relationship.
For example, some plants and animals have evolved to form symbiotic relationships in which the plant provides food and shelter for the animal, while the animal provides protection for the plant from herbivores.