Commensalism is a long-term biological interaction in which members of one species gain benefits while those of the other species neither benefit nor are harmed. This is in contrast with mutualism, in
Remora are specially adapted to attach themselves to larger fish (or other animals, in this case a sea turtle) that provide locomotion and food.
Domestic and feral pigeons (above) (Columba livia domestica) are commensals, having lived alongside humans for thousands of years after being domesticated from the rock dove (Columba livia). Due to its range being expanded with human assistance, the pigeon has a cosmopolitan distribution.
Phoretic mites on a fly (Pseudolynchia canariensis)
Inquilinism: Tillandsia bourgaei growing on an oak tree in Mexico
The remora, sometimes called suckerfish or sharksucker, is any of a family of ray-finned fish in the order Carangiformes. Depending on species, they grow to 30–110 cm long. Their distinctive first dor
Commensalism
…commensal; the host organism is unmodified, whereas the commensal species may show great structural adaptation consistent with its habits, as in the remoras that ride attached to sharks and other fishes. Remoras feed on their hosts' fecal matter, while pilot fish feed on the leftovers of their hosts' meals…
Fossil specimen of Opisthomyzon
Live sharksucker, Echeneis naucrates
Common remora, Remora remora