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.”