Question

Distinguish between a parasite and a saprotroph.

Answer 1

ParasiteSaprotrophThe organism that grows on the body of another organism and derives nutrients from it is known as a parasite.The organism that obtains nutrients from the dead or decaying organic matter is called saprotroph.They take the readymade food from the host.They take the digested and decayed food.They directly feed on living organisms for their nutrition.They feed on dead and decaying organism.Examples- Cuscuta and orchids.Examples- Fungi and some bacteria.

Answer 2

Parasite

(a) Parasite derives nutrients from the living organisms.

(b) The organism on which it feeds is called host.

(c) Example : cuscuta and orchids.

Saprotroph

(a) They deserve nutrients from dead and decaying organisms.

(b) They do not feed on a living organism.

(c) Example : Mushrooms and fungi.