Ectoparasites

Parasites that live on the external surface of a host.

external parasites

Ectoparasites are organisms that live on the external surface of a host organism, deriving nutrients and shelter from it while often causing harm. They include species such as lice, ticks, fleas, and mites.

Ectoparasites derive their name from the Greek words 'ektos' meaning 'outside' and 'parasitos' meaning 'one who eats at another's table'.

Ectoparasites are tiny critters like fleas and ticks that live on the outside of animals or people, feeding on their blood or skin.

Ticks can survive without a blood meal for up to two years
Some ectoparasites, like fleas, can jump over 200 times their body length
Lice are one of the oldest known parasites, with fossils dating back millions of years

What are ectoparasites? Parasites that live on the external surface of a host
What is an example of an ectoparasite? Fleas, ticks, and lice are common examples
How do ectoparasites affect hosts? They can cause irritation, transmit diseases, and weaken the host

Parasites

Lice Ticks Fleas

Host organism

hazardous overseas territory parasitic