Abstract
The present study investigates the epibiotic relationship between the Nile crocodlei (Crocodylusniloticus) and the Egyptian plover (Pluvianus aegyptius), also known as the crocodile bird. Epibiosis is aform of symbiosis where one organism resides on the surface of another. To understand this relationship, thepresent study examines the ecological and evolutionary context of it, as well as the behavioral andphysiological mechanisms that facilitate it. Furthermore, the present study evaluates the implications andchallenges for conservation of this relationship. To achieve these objectives, a literature review on this topicsummarizes the main findings, which indicate that the crocodile offers a safe habitat for the plover to roostand nest, while the plover cleans the crocodile’s teeth and removes parasites. However, the present study alsoidentifies the limitations and gaps in the current knowledge and proposes directions for future research. Thisstudy argues that this relationship between living organisms is a remarkable case of cooperation andconfidence in nature, and that it deserves more interest from researchers and decision-makers. (PDF) The ecological and evolutionary significance of the crocodile-plover symbiosis -A review. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370619713_The_ecological_and_evolutionary_significance_of_the_crocodile-plover_symbiosis_-A_review [accessed Oct 18 2023].
Authors
