pests and parasites flashcard

Front

What is a pest?

Back

A pest is an organism that is considered harmful or a nuisance to humans, animals, or plants.

Front

What is a parasite?

Back

A parasite is an organism that lives on or in a host organism and gets its food at the expense of its host.

Front

Give an example of a common pest.

Back

Examples of common pests include insects like cockroaches, ants, and mosquitoes.

Front

Give an example of a common parasite.

Back

Examples of common parasites include ticks, fleas, and intestinal worms.

Front

What is the role of ticks in the ecosystem?

Back

Ticks are ectoparasites that feed on the blood of mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles, playing a role in controlling host populations.

Front

What is the difference between a pest and a parasite?

Back

A pest is generally harmful to crops or human health, while a parasite specifically lives on or in a host and derives nutrients from it.

Front

What are some effects of pests on agriculture?

Back

Pests can damage crops, reduce yields, and lead to economic losses for farmers.

Front

What are some effects of parasites on their hosts?

Back

Parasites can cause diseases, weaken their hosts, and sometimes lead to death.

Front

What is integrated pest management (IPM)?

Back

IPM is a sustainable approach to managing pests that combines biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools.

Front

What is a vector in the context of parasites?

Back

A vector is an organism, often an insect, that transmits a parasite from one host to another.