Parasitism and Mutualism Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to parasitism and mutualism, based on lecture notes.

Symbiosis

The intimate and protracted association between two or more organisms of different species.

Parasites

Symbionts that live on or in their host for some period, drawing resources from them.

Microparasite

Small parasites with a short generation time that develop and multiply rapidly within the host, often associated with disease.

Macroparasite

Larger parasites with a longer generation time that usually do not complete their life cycle within a single host.

Ectoparasites

Parasites that live on the outside of the host.

Endoparasites

Parasites that live within the host.

Haustorium

A modified root that penetrates the host tissues in plants.

Hemiparasites

Photosynthetic plants that obtain water and nutrients from host xylem.

Holoparasites

Nonphotosynthetic plants that function as heterotrophs, using the host’s phloem and xylem to supply carbon, water, and nutrients.

Mutualism

A relationship between two species where both benefit (+/+).

Obligate mutualists

Mutualists that require the interaction to survive.

Facultative mutualists

Mutualists that do not require the interaction to survive.

Specialist mutualists

Mutualists that interact with a limited number of species.

Generalist mutualists

Mutualists that interact with a wide range of species.

Thallus

Fused body of fungi and algae found in Lichens.

Rhizobium

Bacteria that form a symbiotic relationship with legumes and fix nitrogen.

Endophytic fungi

Fungi that live within plant tissues.