Definitions
- Describing a type of parasite that feeds on another parasite. - Referring to a parasite that lives on the surface of another organism, such as a plant or animal. - Talking about a parasite that does not directly harm its host but feeds on the resources obtained by the primary parasite.
- Referring to a parasite that feeds on another parasite. - Describing a parasite that attacks and feeds on the parasites that are already living on a host organism. - Talking about a parasite that has a complex life cycle involving multiple hosts and parasites.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe parasites that feed on other parasites.
- 2Both words involve a secondary level of parasitism.
- 3Both words refer to organisms that rely on other parasites for survival.
- 4Both words have a prefix indicating their relationship to another organism (epi- and hyper-).
What is the difference?
- 1Target: Epiparasites feed on a primary parasite, while hyperparasites feed on other parasites.
- 2Host: Epiparasites can live on the surface of a host organism, while hyperparasites typically live inside the host organism.
- 3Life cycle: Hyperparasites have a more complex life cycle than epiparasites, often involving multiple hosts and parasites.
- 4Impact: Epiparasites do not directly harm their host, while hyperparasites can harm both the primary parasite and the host organism.
- 5Frequency: Epiparasites are more common than hyperparasites in nature.
Remember this!
Epiparasite and hyperparasite are two words that describe parasites that feed on other parasites. However, the difference between them lies in their target, host, life cycle, impact, and frequency. Epiparasites feed on a primary parasite and can live on the surface of a host organism without directly harming it. In contrast, hyperparasites feed on other parasites and typically live inside the host organism, with a more complex life cycle that can harm both the primary parasite and the host organism.
