NEETZoologyOrganisms and Populations
What aspect of the life cycle is highlighted for parasites like the human liver fluke?
Options
- ASimple and direct life cycle
- BDependency on a single host
- CComplexity involving multiple hosts
- DLack of host-specific adaptations
Correct answer
C. Complexity involving multiple hosts
Step-by-step solution
The life cycles of parasites are often complex, involving one or two intermediate hosts or vectors to facilitate parasitisation of its primary host. The human liver fluke (a trematode parasite) depends on two intermediate hosts (a snail and a fish) to complete its life cycle. The malarial 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