Question

Distinguish between a parasite and a saprotroph. [3 MARKS]

Answer 1

1. Parasite is an organism depending on another organism as a host.

2. Saprotroph is an organism depending on the dead and decaying organism.

Parasite	Saprotroph
1. Parasites derive their nutrients from the host in which they reside to survive.	1. Saprotroph drive their nutrients from the dead and decaying organic matter.
2. They get the direct food from the host organism and do not need to digest.	2. They digest the complex molecules into simpler forms with the help of enzymes that break down the dead and decaying matter.
3. Examples: orchids, bacteria.	3. Examples: Few bacteria and fungi.