Question

Define the following term and give one example:

Parasitism

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

Answer 1

Parasitism is a kind of relationship between two species in which one species which is termed a parasite, derives its food from the other species which is termed as host. Parasitism also involves shelter, in addition to food obtained by a parasite. Parasites may be ectoparasites or endoparasites. Ectoparasites live on the surface of their host while endoparasites live inside the body of the host.

Examples of Parasitism

1. Cuscuta growing on a shoe flower plant is a parasitic interaction, as Cuscuta derives nutrition from Hibiscus (shoe flower), as it lacks chlorophyll.
2.  Head lice is an ectoparasite and suck human blood
3. Ascaris (roundworm), Taenia (tapeworm), Malaria (Plasmodium) causing diseases in humans
4.  Koel laying its eggs in a crow’s nest is an example of brood parasitism. Birds lay eggs in the nest of their host and the host incubates it.

Answer 2

Parasitism is the interaction in which only one species (parasite) is benefited and the interaction is detrimental to other species (host).