Which parasites live externally?

Which parasites live externally?

• A. Endoparasites
• B. Zoonoses
• C. Ectoparasites
• D. None of the above

Answer: (C)

Parasites can be categorized by where they live relative to their host. Those that live on the outside of the body are called ectoparasites. They attach to the skin, fur, or feathers and feed from the host without residing inside. Endoparasites, by contrast, inhabit the internal organs or tissues, such as the gut or bloodstream. Zoonoses are diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans, not a habitat category for parasites. So, when the focus is on parasites that inhabit the exterior, the term that fits best is ectoparasites.

Parasites can be categorized by where they live relative to their host. Those that live on the outside of the body are called ectoparasites. They attach to the skin, fur, or feathers and feed from the host without residing inside. Endoparasites, by contrast, inhabit the internal organs or tissues, such as the gut or bloodstream. Zoonoses are diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans, not a habitat category for parasites. So, when the focus is on parasites that inhabit the exterior, the term that fits best is ectoparasites.