epizoa

/ɛpɪˈzoʊ.ə/

Definitions

1. noun

A member of the class of animals that are parasitic or commensal, especially ectoparasites such as ticks and fleas.

“The epizoa present on the animal’s coat caused severe discomfort.”

2. noun

A member of a group of animals that live in close association with another species.

“The epizoa in the forest ecosystem play a crucial role in the food chain.”

Synonyms

  • commensal
  • ectoparasite
  • parasite

Antonyms

  • host
  • symbiont