Types of Parasitism

Parasites can be classified based on their size, characteristics, and relationship with the host:

• Endoparasites
• Ectoparasites
• Mesoparasites

1. Endoparasites: A parasites living inside the host’s body. For example-Plasmodium falciparum, a parasite which causes malaria in humans.
2. Ectoparasites: A parasites living outside the host’s body. For example- Bedbug, a parasite which causes skin irritation.
3. Mesoparasites: These enter the opening of the body of a host and embed themselves only partially.

These parasites may also transmit disease-causing pathogens to other species of animals.

The life of a typical parasite commonly includes certain developmental stages. During this time, the parasite goes through two or more changes in the body structure as it lives and moves through one or more hosts.

The number of parasites exceeds the number of free-living organisms, means the parasitic lifestyle has been a successful one over the years.