Which ecological relationship involves one species being harmed while the other remains unaffected?

The ecological relationship described is one where one species experiences harm while the other species is unaffected, and this is known as amensalism. In this type of interaction, one organism inadvertently inhibits the growth or survival of another without deriving any benefit for itself. A classic example of amensalism is when a larger plant shades out smaller plants, which negatively impacts their ability to photosynthesize and grow, while the larger plant continues to thrive without being affected by the presence of the smaller plants.

In contrast, commensalism involves one species benefiting while the other is neither helped nor harmed. Parasitism is a relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of another, leading to harm. Mutualism describes a relationship where both species benefit from the interaction. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in ecology and helps clarify how different species interact within ecosystems.