Which relationship involves both organisms benefiting?

The relationship that involves both organisms benefiting is represented by mutualism. In mutualistic relationships, each species contributes to the other's survival and well-being. For example, a common illustration of mutualism is the relationship between bees and flowering plants. Bees obtain nectar from the flowers for food, while at the same time, they help to pollinate those plants, facilitating their reproduction. This mutual benefit enhances the fitness and survival of both organisms involved.

In contrast, commensalism involves one organism benefiting while the other is neither helped nor harmed. Predation refers to a relationship where one organism (the predator) benefits by consuming another organism (the prey), which is harmed in the process. Parasitism is a relationship where one organism (the parasite) benefits at the expense of another organism (the host), causing harm to the host. Understanding these different relationships helps illuminate the intricate interactions within ecosystems, where species can positively, negatively, or neutrally affect one another.