Introduction to Parasitology

Which term refers to an organism that lives at the expense of another organism?

Which of the following is an example of an endoparasite?

What is the term for parasites that must spend at least some of their life cycle in or on a host?

What is the significance of parasitism mentioned in the text?

What is the study of parasites called?

Which type of parasite remains in or on a host once they have invaded it?

What type of vector transfers a parasite to a new host without the parasite going through any part of its life cycle during transit?

What is the term for an organism that carries other parasites and is also a temporary parasite itself?

What does host specificity refer to in the context of parasites?

Which type of parasite invades an organism other than their normal host?

Parasitism Overview

An organism that lives at the expense of another is called a parasite.
The study of parasites is known as parasitology.

Types of Parasites

Endoparasites are examples of parasites that live inside their host.
Parasites that must spend at least part of their life cycle in or on a host are called obligate parasites.
Once a parasite has invaded a host, it is considered a permanent parasite, as it remains within or on the host.
Ectoparasites are those that live on the exterior of the host.

Parasite Transmission and Vectors

A vector that transmits a parasite to a new host without the parasite undergoing any part of its life cycle during transit is known as a mechanical vector.
An organism that carries other parasites and also acts as a temporary parasite itself is termed a hyperparasite.

Host Interactions

Host specificity refers to the range of different hosts that a parasite can occupy, indicating how specialized or generalist a parasite is in its choice of hosts.
Heteroxenous parasites invade organisms other than their typical hosts, showcasing adaptability in their host selection.

Learn about parasites, their impact on hosts, and the significance of parasitism through this introductory quiz. Explore the study of parasites and their life cycles, including the various types like protozoa, helminths, and arthropods.