Ectoparasite

Definition

An organism that lives on the exterior of a host organism, feeding off its blood or tissues.

Etymology

From Greek 'ekto-', meaning 'outside', and 'parasitos', meaning 'one who eats at the table of another'.

Example

Ticks are common ectoparasites that feed on the blood of their host animals.

Synonyms

• External parasite

Related Terms

• Endoparasite
• Host
• Parasitism
• Infestation

Usage Notes

Ectoparasites can cause significant discomfort and health issues for their hosts, including the transmission of diseases.