What are the benefits of endosymbiosis (a) to the host, and (b) to the endosymbiont?
When one organism actually lives inside the other organism is called endosymbiosis. Like nitrogen-fixing bacteria present inside root nodules, and bacterial endosymbionts in insects. A variety of corals, clams and snails permanently host algae in their cells.
a) Benefits of endosymbiosis to the host: In case of nitrogen-fixing bateria present inside root helps to absorb the nitrogen from the atmosphere and provide it to root to prepare food. In all the examples, the host is able to prepare food with the help of the endodymbiont.
b) Benefits of endosymbiosis to the endosymbiont: In the same example, the root provides the food to the nitrogen-fixing bateria for their survival. In all the examples, the endosymbiont get food and shelter from the host.
However, it is not always true. Endosymbioses can be harmful to either of the organisms involved.
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