2o- The parasitic niche Flashcards
1
Q
What is parasitism?
A
A symbiotic relationship between a parasite and a host (+/-), where the parasite gains benefit in terms of nutrients at the expense of its host
2
Q
How is parasitism unlike predator-prey relationships?
A
The reproductive potential of the parasite is greater than that of the host
3
Q
What kind of niche do most parasites have?
A
A narrow (specialised) niche as they are very host-specific
4
Q
As the host provides many of the parasites needs, what can be said about many parasites?
A
They are degenerate, lacking structures and organs found in other organisms
5
Q
Where does an ectoparasite live?
A
On the surface of its host
6
Q
Where does an endoparasite live?
A
Within the tissues of its hosts
