Which one of the following is not a parasitic adaptation? |
Development of adhesive organs Loss of digestive organs Loss of reproduction capacity Loss of unnecessary sense organs |
Loss of reproduction capacity |
The correct answer is Option (3) → Loss of reproduction capacity Many parasites have evolved to be host-specific (they can parasitise only a single species of host) in such a way that both host and the parasite tend to co-evolve; that is, if the host evolves special mechanisms for rejecting or resisting the parasite, the parasite has to evolve mechanisms to counteract and neutralise them, in order to be successful with the same host species. In accordance with their life styles, parasites evolved special adaptations such as the loss of unnecessary sense organs, presence of adhesive organs or suckers to cling on to the host, loss of digestive system and high reproductive capacity. The life cycles of parasites are often complex, involving one or two intermediate hosts or vectors to facilitate parasitisation of its primary host. Majority of the parasites harm the host; they may reduce the survival, growth and reproduction of the host and reduce its population density. |