For some species of katydids within the same genus, the difference may be as subtle as a preference for perching on the top vs the middle of a stem on a grass plant. This is a general term which includes predation, parasitism, commensalism, mutualism, etc., but often is used to mean mutualism. Lions may eat antelope, and wolves may eat deer. Spiders, like this orbweaver, capture and eat insects such as the cricket she s eating. Commensalism A relationship between two species that is beneficial to one but of neutral benefit to the other.
Cattle egrets follow cattle to feed on the insects stirred up by the grazing cattle.
Mutualism A relationship between two species where both benefit. Many plants and their pollinators have evolved mutualistic relationships. Butterfly-weed provides food for and is pollinated by butterflies like pipevine swallowtails. This is a relationship where one organism benefits and the other is harmed. Often the host is not killed outright.