Ectoparasites and Their Effects

Flashcards on ectoparasites, their characteristics, effects, and classifications based on provided test questions.

Ectoparasites

Organisms that live on or feed on the exterior of a host.

Prefix 'ecto-'

Means 'outside'.

Main characteristic of ectoparasites

They rely on a host for food.

Common effects of ectoparasites on animals

Irritation and discomfort.

How do fleas primarily feed?

By sucking blood.

Mites classification

Classified as arachnids.

Difference between lice and fleas

Lice do not drink blood.

Ectoparasite likely present with irritated skin, hair loss, and shared bedding but no visible specks

Sarcoptic mites.

Most likely ectoparasite for a dog that scratches excessively and has small red bumps

Fleas.

Likely cause of dry, flaky skin and small white specks that do not move on a dog

Lice.