Parasite

usgb/ˈpærəsaɪt/
noun

A small animal or plant that lives on or inside another animal or plant and gets food from it.

Ticks are parasites that feed on the blood of mammals.
Visual representation of "parasite" - A small animal or plant that lives on or inside another animal or plant and gets food from it.

Often appears as...

  • blood parasite
  • intestinal parasite
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "parasite"
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Biological Context

The term 'parasite' in biology often implies harm to the host organism.

Illustration for Biological Context
The oak tree was infested with parasites, causing it to weaken.
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Host Specific

Some parasites only live on specific hosts and are not found elsewhere.

Illustration for Host Specific
The panda bear has a unique parasite that does not affect any other species.
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Not Always Visible

Parasites can be microscopic and not always seen by the naked eye.

Illustration for Not Always Visible
Despite being invisible, the microscopic parasites were causing him discomfort.
Visual representation of the word "Parasite"

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