What type of symbiotic relationship is mutualism?

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both species involved benefit from the interaction. This relationship can manifest in various forms, including nutritional benefits (such as in the case of pollinators and flowering plants), protective benefits (where one organism provides shelter or protection for another), or by facilitating essential services like nutrient acquisition. Examples of mutualism include bees pollinating flowers while obtaining nectar, and cleaner fish eating parasites off larger fish while receiving food in return. The key characteristic of mutualism is that both parties gain advantages that can enhance their survival, reproduction, or overall fitness, making this interdependence a crucial aspect of many ecosystems.