Which of the following best describes commensalism?

Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed. In this relationship, the benefiting organism, often referred to as the commensal, gains some advantage, such as nutrition, shelter, or transport, without negatively impacting the host organism.

An example of commensalism can be found in the relationship between barnacles and whales. Barnacles attach themselves to the skin of whales, gaining access to nutrient-rich waters as the whale swims. The whale, in this instance, is generally unaffected by the presence of the barnacles.

This understanding of commensalism is fundamental in microbiology and ecology, as it illustrates the various interactions between organisms that can influence their survival and adaptation in ecosystems.