Which term describes a parasite that lives on the exterior of its host?

Which term describes a parasite that lives on the exterior of its host?

• A. External parasite
• B. Endoparasite
• C. Commensal
• D. Saprophyte

Answer: (A)

The main idea is understanding where the parasite lives relative to the host. An external parasite stays on the outside of the host’s body, such as on the skin or in hair, feeding from the host or its blood and potentially spreading pathogens. That placement on the exterior is why this term fits best. Endoparasites live inside the body, commensals are organisms that coexist with the host without harming it, and saprophytes feed on dead organic matter rather than living hosts.

The main idea is understanding where the parasite lives relative to the host. An external parasite stays on the outside of the host’s body, such as on the skin or in hair, feeding from the host or its blood and potentially spreading pathogens. That placement on the exterior is why this term fits best. Endoparasites live inside the body, commensals are organisms that coexist with the host without harming it, and saprophytes feed on dead organic matter rather than living hosts.