KA 5: parasitism: parasite niche Flashcards
what is parasitism?
symbiotic interaction between a parasite and its host (+/-)
a parasite gains…
benefit in terms of nutrients at the expense of its host
what is the difference between the reproductive potential in a parasitic relationship and a predator-prey relationship?
the reproductive potential of the parasite is greater then that of the host
what do most parasites have?
a narrow (specialised) niche as they are very host-specific
what happens to parasites due to hosts providing so many of the parasites needs?
many parasites are degenerate, lacking structures and organs found in other organisms
where do ectoparasites live?
surface of its host
where do endoparasites live?
within the tissues of its host