Loiseläin

Loiseläin is a Finnish term that translates to "parasitic animal." It refers to any animal organism that lives in or on another animal, the host, and derives nourishment from it. This relationship is known as parasitism, where the parasite benefits at the expense of the host. Parasitic animals can be found across a wide range of animal groups, from simple invertebrates to complex vertebrates.

The life cycles of loiseläimet are often complex, involving one or more host species. Some parasites live their entire lives attached to a single host, while others may migrate between different hosts during different stages of their development. The impact of a loiseläin on its host can vary greatly. Some parasites cause minimal harm, while others can lead to significant illness, reduced fitness, or even death for the host.

Examples of loiseläimet include fleas, ticks, tapeworms, and many types of protozoa. These organisms have evolved a variety of adaptations to survive and reproduce within their hosts. These adaptations can include specialized mouthparts for feeding, protective coverings against the host's immune system, and methods for ensuring transmission to new hosts. The study of loiseläimet and their interactions with hosts is an important field in biology, contributing to our understanding of ecology, evolution, and veterinary and human medicine.