INCIDENTAL PARASITE Meaning and
Definition
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An incidental parasite is a type of parasitic organism that infests and lives on or inside another organism, but does not rely on it exclusively for survival or reproduction. This type of parasite typically has a broader range of hosts and is capable of completing its life cycle in multiple organisms. The relationship between the incidental parasite and its host is temporary and not obligatory for either party.
While an incidental parasite may cause harm to its host, it does not usually result in severe damage or death. The interaction between the parasite and the host is often opportunistic, occurring when the parasite temporarily encounters an appropriate host. Unlike obligatory parasites, which rely solely on a narrow range of specific hosts to complete their life cycle, incidental parasites are more adaptable and can exploit a diverse range of potential hosts.
Incidental parasites are commonly encountered among different groups of organisms, including parasitic insects, worms, and fungi. They can be found in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Examples of incidental parasites include certain mosquito species that may feed on a variety of animals, including humans, but do not depend exclusively on any particular species.
In summary, an incidental parasite is a parasitic organism that can exploit a range of hosts without being obligatorily dependent on any single one. This type of parasite is adaptable and does not cause severe harm to its host.
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One which normally lives on another than its present host.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for INCIDENTAL PARASITE
- incidentalparacite
- inncidentalparasite
- i ncidental parasite
- in cidental parasite
- inc idental parasite
- inci dental parasite
- incid ental parasite
- incide ntal parasite
- inciden tal parasite
- incident al parasite
- incidenta l parasite
- incidental pa rasite
- incidental par asite
- incidental para site
- incidental paras ite
- incidental parasi te
- incidental parasit e
Etymology of INCIDENTAL PARASITE
The word "incidental" originates from the Latin word "incidere", which means "to fall upon" or "to happen", while "parasite" comes from the Greek word "parásitos", meaning "one who eats at the table of another".
When combined, the term "incidental parasite" refers to a parasite that unintentionally infects a host while seeking another organism or benefiting from an unrelated ecological interaction. The etymology of this specific combination of words can be understood by considering the meanings of both individual terms.
