A biological relationship where two organisms live together in close association, neither particularly benefiting nor harming the other.
From Greek 'kola' (sharing) + 'bio' (life) + 'osis' (condition), combining elements meaning 'living together'. The term evolved in the 19th century to describe symbiotic relationships where neither partner gains advantage.
This word describes relationships like remora fish hitching rides on sharks—living together without really helping or hurting each other. Scientists needed a word to distinguish this from mutualism (both benefit) and parasitism (one harms), showing how precise ecological language can become.
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