Parasite Definition - Types, Examples, and Parasitic Infections

Parasites are organisms that latch onto, live inside, or coexist with a larger species from which they extract nutrients. Some parasites can cause harm to their hosts, while others live in harmony. Parasites fall into three categories: ectoparasites, endoparasites, and mesoparasites.

Ectoparasites are those that live on the exterior of the host, often causing skin irritations and discomfort. Endoparasites, on the other hand, live inside the host’s body, usually in the bloodstream, muscles, or digestive system. Mesoparasites are those that enter the host through an opening and embed themselves partially within the host.

Various organisms, including protozoa, helminths, and arthropods, can cause parasitic infections. An example of such an infection is giardia, which affects the intestines and is caused by the giardia parasite.

Examples of endoparasites include tapeworms and flukes, while ticks and lice are examples of ectoparasites.

Main Article:

• Parasites And Symbiosis – Definition, Types, Examples
• What Is Parasitism? – Definition, Types and Examples of Parasitism
• Giardia life cycle

Further Reading: Infectious Diseases: Types, Causes, Symptoms And Preventions

To delve deeper into the definition of parasites, or any other biology-related definitions, check out this link .