Which term describes parasites that feed on the external surface of the host, such as mites and leeches?

Which term describes parasites that feed on the external surface of the host, such as mites and leeches?

• A. Endoparasites
• B. Ectoparasites
• C. Hyperparasites
• D. Autoparasites

Answer: (B)

Ectoparasites are parasites that live on the outside of the host and feed from its surface. Mites and leeches are classic examples, clinging to or moving across the skin or exterior rather than inhabiting the body. This is distinct from endoparasites, which live inside the host, such as intestinal worms. Hyperparasites are parasites of other parasites, not of the host itself, and autoparasites refer to different parasitic relationships that don’t describe external surface feeding. So, ectoparasites is the correct term.

Ectoparasites are parasites that live on the outside of the host and feed from its surface. Mites and leeches are classic examples, clinging to or moving across the skin or exterior rather than inhabiting the body. This is distinct from endoparasites, which live inside the host, such as intestinal worms. Hyperparasites are parasites of other parasites, not of the host itself, and autoparasites refer to different parasitic relationships that don’t describe external surface feeding. So, ectoparasites is the correct term.