CBSE 12th Biology Concept Note:

Parasitism Explained With Example

BY Team Aakash Byjus

It is a kind of interaction where one organism benefits and other organisms are harmed. An organism that benefits is known as a parasite.

Parasitism

An organism from which a parasite gets benefits is known as the host.

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Parasites are divided into two types. These include ectoparasite and endoparasite.

Types of Parasites

Ectoparasites live outside of the host body at different sites. Examples: Lice, Leech, Ticks.

Ectoparasites

Endoparasites live inside the host body at different sites. Example: Tapeworm, Roundworms, liver fluke.

Endoparasites

It is a kind of parasitism where one bird lays its eggs in another bird’s nest. The bird gives parental care to the eggs. Example: Cuckoo, cowbird.

Brood Parasitism

A non- chlorophyll plant that obtains its nutrition from another (host) plant is parasitic.

Parasitic Plants

Parasitic plants are of two types. These include Root parasites and stem parasites.

A parasitic plant that obtains its nutrition from the host plant’s root. Example: Rafflesia, Stringa, Orobanche.

Root Parasite

A parasitic plant that obtains its nutrition from the stem of the host plant. Example: Cuscuta, Viscum album, Loranthus.

Stem Parasite

– Parasites have high     reproductive capacity. –Parasites don’t have a    digestive system.

Parasitic Adaptations

Parasites reduce the reproductive capacity of the host.

Effects of Parasites on Host

– Parasites reduce the      survival chances of the      host. – Some ectoparasites cause     weight loss in the host.