INTERMEDIATE HOST Meaning and
Definition
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An intermediate host is a living organism that plays a crucial role in the life cycle of a parasite or a pathogen. Specifically, it refers to a species that harbors the parasite during a developmental stage but is not the definitive or final host. The intermediate host acts as a temporary accommodation for the parasite, aiding in its growth, reproduction, or transformation until it reaches its next life stage or transmits to the definitive host.
These hosts are usually distinct from the definitive host, which is where the parasite reaches its adult or reproductive stage. Intermediate hosts can be diverse and vary depending on the parasite or pathogen. They can encompass a range of organisms such as invertebrates, vertebrates, and sometimes even plants.
The role of an intermediate host in a parasite's life cycle is crucial for its proliferation and transmission. It allows the parasite to adapt to different environments and survive until it can reach the definitive host and complete its life cycle. In some cases, intermediate hosts may be required for the parasite to undergo specific transformations or developmental phases, without which the parasite would not be able to infect the definitive host or cause disease.
Understanding the concept of intermediate hosts is vital in the control and prevention of parasitic diseases, as targeting these hosts can disrupt or interfere with the transmission and spread of parasites.
Common Misspellings for INTERMEDIATE HOST
- untermediate host
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- inrermediate host
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- in5ermediate host
- intwrmediate host
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- intdrmediate host
Etymology of INTERMEDIATE HOST
The term "intermediate host" comes from the combination of two words: "intermediate" and "host".
- "Intermediate" comes from the Latin word "intermedius", which is derived from "inter" meaning "between" and "medius" meaning "middle". It represents something or someone that is in the middle position or comes between two others.
- "Host" comes from the Old French word "hoste", which further traces back to the Latin word "hospes" meaning "guest" or "host". In this context, it refers to an organism that harbors or provides a living space for another organism for a period.
Combining these terms, an "intermediate host" refers to an organism that serves as a temporary or middle position host for a parasite, where the parasite undergoes some developmental stages before reaching its final or definitive host.
Similar spelling words for INTERMEDIATE HOST
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