Multiple choice

The microorganisms that live on a host's body and benefit from it without harming the host are called ______.

  1. Saprophytes

  2. Commensals

  3. Symbionts

  4. Microbes
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Commensals are microorganisms that live on or in a host and benefit from the relationship without causing harm. Unlike parasites, which damage the host, or mutualists, which provide benefit in return, commensals have a neutral relationship. Examples include skin bacteria like Staphylococcus epidermidis that normally don't cause disease.

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