hyperparasitic
Hyperparasitism is a unique and complex form of parasitism where one parasite species feeds on another parasite species. This phenomenon is relatively rare in the natural world but has been observed in various ecosystems, including marine environments and terrestrial habitats. Hyperparasitism can occur at different trophic levels, with the hyperparasite often occupying a higher position in the food chain compared to its host parasite.
The relationship between hyperparasites and their hosts can be mutualistic, commensalistic, or parasitic, depending on the
Hyperparasitism plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by regulating the populations of