Write a short note on the parasitic adaptations.

Explanation

In order to lead successful parasitic life, parasites evolved special adaptations such as:
. a) Loss of sense organs (which are not necessary for most parasites).
b) Presence of adhesive organs such as suckers, hooks to cling on the host.s body parts. .
c) Loss of digestive system and presence of high reproductive capacity.
d) The life cycles of parasites are aften complex, involving one or two intermediate hosts or vectors to facilitate parasitisation of their primary hosts.
e.g. :1 : The human liver fluke depends on two intermediate (secondary) hosts (a snail and a fish) to complete its life cycle.
e.g.: 2: The malaria parasite needs a vector (mosquito) to spread to other hosts. Majority of the parasites harm the host : they may reduce the survival, growth and reproduction of the host and reduce its population density. They might render the host more vulnerable to predation by making it physically weak.