par·a·sit·ism (p r  -s -tz m, -s -)n. 1. The characteristic behavior or mode of existence of a parasite or parasitic population. 2. Parasitosis. |
parasitism [ˈpærəsaɪˌtɪzəm]
n
1. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Biology) the relationship between a parasite and its host
2. (Medicine / Pathology) the state of being infested with parasites
3. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Biology) the state of being a parasite
| parasitism (pr-s-tzm) A symbiotic relationship in which one organism (the parasite) benefits and the other (the host) is generally harmed. Parasites derive nutrition from their host and may also gain other benefits such as shelter and a habitat in which to grow and reproduce. See more at parasite. Compare amensalismcommensalismmutualism |
parasitism
a relationship between animals in which one gains sustenance from the other. Cf. commensalism. See also biology; plants.
See also: Animalsa relationship between plants in which one gains sustenance from the other. See also animals; biology.
See also: Plantsthe living together of two organisms in a relationship that is beneficial to one and destructive to the other. — parasitic, parasitical, adj.
See also: Biology
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | parasitism - the relation between two different kinds of organisms in which one receives benefits from the other by causing damage to it (usually not fatal damage) interdependence, interdependency, mutuality - a reciprocal relation between interdependent entities (objects or individuals or groups) |
Translations
How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content.
| ?Page tools | ||
|---|---|---|
|