Parasites

The word “parasite” is derived from the Greek word meaning, “the one that eats at the table of others”, and is estimated to be from around 5900 BC.

Parasites are an incredibly varied group of organisms that live within host cells. They are smaller than their host organism and reproduce faster by causing more damage to the host. They receive all sorts of benefits like food and shelter from the host. Their size ranges from tiny, single-celled organisms to worms over 20- 30 m in length.

For example- Tapeworms, that are flat, segmented worms, live in the intestines of animals by absorbing the host’s nutrients.