Parasites

Definition

Parasites are organisms that live on or inside a host organism, deriving nutrients at the host's expense. They can cause diseases and impact the health of their hosts significantly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Protists include many parasitic species, such as Plasmodium, which causes malaria.
2. Parasitic relationships are a form of symbiosis where only one organism benefits while the other is harmed.
3. Fungi can also be parasitic, affecting plants, animals, and even humans.
4. Parasites often have complex life cycles involving multiple hosts.
5. The study of parasites and their interactions with hosts is called parasitology.

Review Questions

• What are two examples of protist parasites?
• How do parasites differ from other forms of symbiosis?
• Why is understanding the life cycle of a parasite important in controlling diseases?

Related terms

Symbiosis: A close and long-term biological interaction between two different biological organisms.

Host: The organism that a parasite lives on or in and derives nutrients from.

Pathogen: An agent that causes disease, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.