What is a Parasite?
An organism classified as a parasite is one that feeds on the body of its host, another living thing, or lives inside or on it. Depending on the nature of the interaction, parasites can inflict harm on the host that ranges from minor irritation to serious damage or even death. From specialised structures for attachment, feeding, and evading host defences, parasites have developed a variety of adaptations to effectively take advantage of their hosts.
Types of Parasites
The various types of parasite are discussed below:
- Endoparasites: The host’s body is the habitat to these parasites. Examples include some protozoa and internal worms like tapeworms and flukes.
- Ectoparasites: The host’s body’s surface is habitat to these parasites. Mites, fleas, lice, and ticks are a few examples.
- Microparasites: This includes, bacteria, viruses, fungi etc.
- Macroparasites: Larger parasites that can be seen with the naked eye, such as worms and arthropods.
- Protozoan: These are Single-celled organisms, capable of causing illnesses such as malaria (Plasmodium) and sleeping sickness (Trypanosoma).
- Helminthis: These includes nematodes, cestodes and trematodes.
Difference Between Host and Parasite
The difference between host and parasite lies in the benefit one derives from the interaction. Host and parasite relationship involves the host providing habitat and nourishment for the parasite, while the parasite relies on the host for survival and reproduction, often causing harm to the host in the process. The host and parasite examples include humans infected with malaria parasites. In this article, we will cover the difference between host and parasite in detail.
Table of Content
- What is a Host?
- What is a Parasite?
- Difference between Host and Parasite
- Conclusion – Difference Between Host and Parasite
- Difference Between Related Links
- FAQs on Difference Between Host and Parasite