L1. Introduction

Monoxenous Life Cycle

characterises a parasite whose development is restricted to a single host species.

Heteroxenous Life Cycle

characterises a parasite whose development involves several host species.

Symbiosis

both partners complement each other

Phoresis

a type of symbiotic relationship in which one organism is mechanically carried on or in another species; no biochemical dependence

Mutualism

both partners benefit each other

Commensalism

one partner benefits, the other is not harmed

Parasitism

one partner benefits, the other is harmed

Parasite

an organism which lives at least part of its life cycle on or within another organism (the host) upon which it is physiologically and metabolically dependent and to which it causes harm in some way

Obligate Parasite

a parasite which is completely dependent on the host during a segment or all of its life cycle

Facultative Parasite

an organism that exhibits both parasitic and non-parasitic modes of living and does not absolutely depend on the parasitic way of life, but is capable of adapting to it if placed on a host

Accidental Parasite

when a parasite attacks an unnatural host and survives

Erratic Parasite

when a parasite wanders into an organ in which it is not normally found

Final Host (Definitive Host)

a host that harbours a parasite in the adult stage or where the parasite undergoes sexual reproduction

Intermediate Host (IH)

harbours the larval stages of the parasite or an asexual cycle of development takes place

Paratenic Host (PH)

a host that serves as a temporary refuge and vehicle for reaching an obligatory host, usually the definitive host, i.e

Aberrant Host (RH)

a host in which a parasite cannot persist for a longer period or develop

What are the types of host specificity?

stenotic, eurixic

Stenotic Host Specificity

absolute host specificity (only one host)

Eurixic Host Specificity

specific to multiple hosts

Topic Specificity

location specific

Seasonal Specificity

can only be found in or on the host during certain periods of the year

Age Specificity

parasites are typical for young, or very old animals due to underdeveloped immune system

Protozoology

study of microscopic one-celled organisms (protozoa)

Helminthology

study of helminths (Cestoda, Nematoda, Trematoda, Acanthocephala)

Arachnoentomology

study of Arthropods (Arachnids, Insecta)

What are the divisions of taxonomy?

Domain, kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, species

How do you identify a class (taxonomy)?

-ea

How do you identify an order (taxonomy)?

-ida

How do you identify a family (taxonomy)?

-idae

What are the phylums of protozoa?

Metamonada, Parabasala, Euglenozoa, Alveolata, Amoebozoa, Microsporidia