Question

In relation to humans, \(B\), burgdorferi is a/an _________ and the tick is a/an ____________. a. endoparasite/ectoparasite b. endoparasite/host c. parasitoid/host d. parasite/predator

Short answer

In relation to humans, B. burgdorferi is an endoparasite and the tick is an ectoparasite.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the terminology

B. burgdorferi is a bacterium responsible for Lyme disease in humans. It is transferred to humans when an infected tick bites a person. Therefore, we need to analyze the relationship between humans, B. burgdorferi, and ticks. Here are the terms used in the given options: - Endoparasite: An organism that lives inside another organism (its host) and benefits from it, harming the host in the process. - Ectoparasite: An organism that lives outside another organism (its host) and benefits from it, harming the host in the process. - Host: An organism that is invaded and negatively affected by another organism. - Parasitoid: An organism that lives inside or outside another organism (its host) and eventually kills the host. - Parasite: An organism that lives inside or outside another organism (its host) and benefits from it, harming the host in the process. - Predator: An organism that actively hunts and kills other organisms for food.

Analyze the relationships between the organisms

B. burgdorferi lives inside the human and tick host, causing harm (Lyme disease) and thus can be considered an endoparasite. It doesn't kill the host, so it's not a parasitoid. The tick feeds on human blood and lives outside the human body while doing so. It transfers B. burgdorferi to humans in the process, causing harm to the human. Therefore, the tick is an ectoparasite of humans.

Choose the correct option

According to our analysis, B. burgdorferi is an endoparasite, and the tick is an ectoparasite. So the correct choice is: a. endoparasite/ectoparasite

Key concepts

Endoparasite

Endoparasites are fascinating and often misunderstood creatures. They are organisms that live inside the bodies of their hosts, deriving nutrients at the host's expense. This parasitic relationship can lead to significant harm to the host, including diseases and discomfort. Unlike some other parasitic interactions, endoparasites can thrive within the organs, tissues, and even cells of their hosts, making them challenging to detect and treat.

Examples of endoparasites include certain bacteria, protozoa, and helminths. A well-known example among humans is the bacterium \(B.\, burgdorferi\), which causes Lyme disease. This bacterium may not directly kill its host, but it can lead to complex health issues. Thus, understanding more about endoparasites and their pathways is crucial for diagnosing and managing parasitic infections.

• Lives inside the host
• Causes harm to the host
• Examples include bacteria and protozoa

Ectoparasite

Ectoparasites are organisms that live on the external surface of a host. They interact with the host largely through attachment or penetration into the skin or superficial layers and cause harm by feeding on the host or transmitting diseases. Common examples of ectoparasites include fleas, lice, and ticks, which are well-known for their nuisance and the health implications they carry.

Ticks, in particular, are a significant concern because they act as vectors for disease transmission. They attach to the skin, feeding on their host's blood and potentially transferring pathogens like \(B.\, burgdorferi\), the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease. Management of ectoparasitic infestations often involves the use of topical treatments, environmental controls, and personal protective measures, demonstrating the importance of understanding interaction dynamics between ectoparasites and their hosts.

• Lives on the host's surface
• Can transmit diseases
• Ticks are notable ectoparasites

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a common and potentially serious illness caused by the bacterium \(B.\, burgdorferi\), which is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. This zoonotic vector-borne disease is most prevalent in regions with high tick populations, such as the northeastern United States and parts of Europe.

Symptoms of Lyme disease can vary widely and often start with a characteristic rash known as "erythema migrans," which sometimes resembles a bull's-eye. If left untreated, Lyme disease can progress to affect the joints, nervous system, and heart, leading to severe long-term health complications.

Diagnosis relies on clinical examination and may be supported by laboratory tests to confirm the presence of the bacteria. Fortunately, when caught early, Lyme disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics, making awareness and timely medical advice crucial for those at risk.

• Caused by \(B.\, burgdorferi\) bacterium
• Transmitted by tick bites
• Early treatment with antibiotics is effective