Definition

A type of parasite that lives on the outside of another animal or plant, feeding on its host.

Example

Fleas and ticks are common ectoparasites that can harm pets.

Conversation

Did you know that a flea is an example of an ectoparasite?

Really? I had no idea it was called that!

Yeah, they live on the outside of their hosts, which is pretty fascinating.

That is interesting! I guess that's why they’re so hard to get rid of.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ectoparasite → It is formed from "ecto-" (from Greek "ektos", meaning outside) and "parasitus" (from Latin, meaning one who eats at another's table, or parasite). The word describes an organism that lives on the outside of a host and derives nourishment from it.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ecto-' meaning 'outside' and 'parasite' as an organism that feeds off another. This helps you remember that an ectoparasite is something that lives on the outside of a host.

Visually Confused Words