Organisms that grow, feed, and shelter on or in another organism (referred to as the host), while contributing nothing to the survival of that organism Parasites must have a host to survive.
A parasite is an organism or virus that coexists in a close relationship with a living organism, from which it acquires a crucial component for its survival, without reciprocating any advantage in return. Such an organism or virus thrives by deriving a part or all of its nutrition from the operational tissues of another living organism with which it is in intimate association. Essentially, a parasite is a living organism that depends entirely or partially on the functional tissues of its host for sustenance. The BMS addendum, which states that a parasite confers ‘no benefit in return,’ is challenging to establish in practical terms and likely included to differentiate between parasitic and symbiotic relationships. However, it is possible to regard a mycorrhizal fungus, for instance, as a parasite with a symbiotic relationship with its host.
A living organism that resides on or within another organism and obtains nourishment, including food and fluids, from the host organism.
An organism that resides in or on another living being (the host) benefits from it, often to the host’s detriment. Conversely, certain organisms coexist with other beings in a symbiotic manner, where both parties gain advantages from the relationship.
Parasites derive sustenance from the host’s blood, tissues, or consumed food. They might reside with the host for only a portion of their life or stay indefinitely. While some induce minimal symptoms, others can lead to illness or even fatality.
Human parasites encompass entities like protozoa, worms, flukes, leeches, lice, ticks, and mites. Additionally, viruses, as well as pathogenic fungi and bacteria, are considered parasites.
An organism, whether a plant or an animal, that resides either on or inside another organism and derives its sustenance at the host’s expense.