Alternate host
- Pronunciation
- /AL-ter-nate HOST/
- Category
- Entomology
- Singular
- Alternate host
- Plural
- Alternate hosts
Definition
A secondary host organism that harbors a parasite or pathogen, especially when it is not the primary or usual host.
Etymology
From Latin 'alternus', meaning 'other' or 'alternate'.
Example
The mosquito Aedes aegypti is an alternate host for the dengue virus.
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Alternate hosts can play a significant role in the spread of diseases and parasites.