Entomology and Parasitology Terms

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to entomology and parasitology based on the provided lecture notes.

Entomology

The scientific study of insects and their relationships to humans, the environment, and other organisms.

Parasite

A smaller organism that lives on or in and at the expense of a larger organism called a host.

Symbiosis

Close term reaction between two different species, often living together.

Mutualism

A form of symbiosis where both the host and microorganism benefit.

Commensalism

A form of symbiosis where the host and microorganism live together without harm or benefit.

Parasitism

A form of symbiosis where the organism has a negative impact on its host.

Ectoparasites

Parasites that cause infestations, living outside the host.

Endoparasites

Parasites that cause infections, living inside the host.

Monoxenous

A parasite that requires one host to complete its life cycle.

Heteroxenous

A parasite that requires more than one host to complete its life cycle.

Primary Host

The host in which the parasite reaches sexual maturity or undergoes sexual reproduction.

Secondary Host

A host that harbors the parasite at another stage of development, usually asexual.

Facultative Parasite

A parasite that is able to exist as free living or as a parasite.

Abnormal/Aberrant Host

A host in which the parasite cannot complete its normal life cycle, often resulting in severe or atypical disease.

Vector

A living organism, usually an arthropod, that transmits a pathogen from one host to another.

Parasitemia

The presence of parasites in the blood.