1. Cleaning Symbiosis:
- Yellow Perch engage in cleaning symbiosis with Johnny Darters (Etheostoma nigrum). Johnny Darters act as "cleaners," removing parasites, debris, and dead skin from the body surfaces of Yellow Perch. This behavior benefits the Yellow Perch by improving their health and reducing the risk of infections.
2. Commensalism:
- Small fish species like Emerald Shiners (Notropis atherinoides) and Spottail Shiners (Notropis hudsonius) often school with Yellow Perch. These smaller fish benefit from the protection provided by the larger Yellow Perch, which can deter predators. This association is an example of commensalism, as the Yellow Perch neither benefit nor are harmed by the presence of the smaller fish.
3. Predation and Parasitism:
- Yellow Perch have a predator-prey relationship with other fish species, including Northern Pike (Esox lucius) and Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides). Additionally, Yellow Perch can be hosts to various parasites, such as tapeworms and roundworms, which negatively affect their health and fitness.
It is important to recognize that these symbiotic relationships can vary depending on the specific species and ecological conditions within different lake biomes. The interactions between Yellow Perch and other organisms contribute to the overall biodiversity and functioning of the lake ecosystem.