Parasitit

Parasitism is a type of symbiotic relationship in which one organism, the parasite, lives on or in another organism, the host, causing it harm. The parasite benefits from the relationship, often obtaining food, shelter, or other resources from the host, while the host is typically negatively affected. Parasitism is a common phenomenon in various ecosystems and can occur between different levels of biological organization, including cells, organisms, and populations.

Parasites can be classified into several categories based on their mode of infection and the type of host they infect. Endoparasites live inside the host's body, while ectoparasites live on the host's surface. Some parasites are obligate, meaning they cannot survive without a host, while others are facultative, able to live independently. Examples of parasites include viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, helminths, and arthropods.

Parasitism plays a significant role in the natural world, influencing population dynamics, ecosystem structure, and evolution. It can lead to disease in humans and animals, causing significant economic and health impacts. Understanding parasitism is crucial for developing strategies to control and manage these relationships, as well as for studying the complex interactions between organisms in various ecosystems.