Question

Define parasitism and give any two types with suitable example of each.

Answer 1

Parasitism is the interaction between two individuals where the parasite gets the benefit at the expense of the host. In other words, it is a relationship between two different living organisms in which one organism called the parasite, obtains its food directly from another living organism which is called host.

Parasites can be divided into following types:

1. Ectoparasites: The parasites which live outside of host are called ectoparasites. Example, human body lice (Pediculus humanus).

2. Endoparasites: The parasites which live inside the host, in the digestive tract, body cavities, various organs or other tissues of the host. Example, Taenia solium.