5. the parasite niche

Question 1

what does a parasite gain?

Answer 1

A parasite gains benefit in terms of nutrients at the expense of its host

Question 2

what is parasitism?

Answer 2

Parasitism is a symbiotic interaction between a parasite and its host (+/-)

Question 3

what is greater for the parasite?

Answer 3

Unlike in a predator–prey relationship, the reproductive potential of the parasite is greater than that of the host

Question 4

what do most parasites have?

Answer 4

Most parasites have a narrow (specialised) niche as they are very host-specific

Question 5

why are many parasites degenerate?

Answer 5

As the host provides so many of the parasite’s needs, many parasites are degenerate, lacking structures and organs found in other organisms

Question 6

what is an ectoparasite?

Answer 6

An ectoparasite lives on the surface of its host, whereas an endoparasite lives within the tissues of its host