A type of symbiosis where two (or more) organisms from different species live in close proximity to one another, in which one member depends on another for its nutrients, protection, and/or other life functions. The dependent member (the parasite) benefits from the relationship while the other one (the host) is harmed by it.

From the BioTech Dictionary at http://biotech.icmb.utexas.edu/. For further information see the BioTech homenode.

Par"a*si`tism (?), n. [Cf. F. parasitisme.]

1.

The state or behavior of a parasite; the act of a parasite.

"Court parasitism."

Milton.

2. Bot. & Zool.

The state of being parasitic.

 

© Webster 1913.

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