Definition
noun, plural: paratenic hosts
An intermediate host which is not needed for the development of the parasite, but nonetheless serves to maintain the life cycle of the parasite.
Supplement
The difference between a paratenic and reservoir host is that the reservoir host is a primary host, whereas paratenic host serves as “dumps” for non-mature stages of a parasite which they can accumulate in high numbers.
Compare: reservoir host
Dictionary > Paratenic host
You will also like...
![Types and Causes of Brain Damage](https://www.biologyonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Types-and-Causes-of-Brain-Damage-166x168.jpg)
Types and Causes of Brain Damage
This tutorial describes the different types and causes of brain damage. Find out how genetics, physical injury, lack of ..
![Buttress roots](https://www.biologyonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Roots-252x168.jpg)
Roots
This study guide tackles plant roots in greater detail. It delves into the development of plant roots, the root structur..
![Chemical effects on plant growth and development](https://www.biologyonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Effect-of-Chemicals-on-Growth-Development-in-Organisms-300x168.jpg)
Effect of Chemicals on Growth & Development in Organisms
Plants and animals need elements, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium for proper growth and developme..
![Physical growth](https://www.biologyonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Physical-Development-in-Humans-239x168.jpg)
Physical Development in Humans
This tutorial elaborates on the physical development of humans, particularly from puberty to adulthood. Read this tutori..
![river](https://www.biologyonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Running-Water-Freshwater-Communities-252x168.jpg)
Running Water Freshwater Communities
This tutorial introduces flowing water communities, which bring new and dithering factors into the equation for possible..
![An artistic depiction of a human embryo](https://www.biologyonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Growth-and-Development-of-a-Human-Baby-252x168.jpg)
Growth and Development of a Human Baby
Upon fertilization, a zygote forms and develops into an embryo. This tutorial elaborates on the growth and development f..