Chapter 5, Problem 46A

Summary Introduction

To explain:

Parasitism and give an example of a parasite that is found in an ecosystem near our community.

Introduction:

Some species survive because of the relationship they have developed with other species. The close relationship that exists when two or more than two species live together is symbiosis. There are three different kinds of symbiosis- mutualism, parasitism, and commensalism.

Explanation of Solution

Parasitism is a symbiotic relationship where one organism is benefited at the expense of another organism. Parasites can be external, such as ticks and fleas, or internal, such as bacteria, tapeworms, and roundworms. In parasitism, if the host dies, the parasite also would die unless it quickly finds another host. Brown-headed cowbirds demonstrate brood parasitism because they rely on other bird species to build their nests and incubate their eggs. A brown-headed cowbird lays its eggs in another bird's nest and abandons the eggs. The host bird incubates and feeds the young cowbirds. Often the baby cowbirds push the host's eggs or young from the nest, resulting in the survival of only the cowbirds.

Conclusion

Thus, in parasitism, one organism is benefited at the expense of another organism.