Question

Distinguish between a parasite and a saprotroph.

Answer 1

The organisms, which thrive on or within another organism, known as the host, and generally result in some harm to it are the parasites. These organisms demonstrate the phenomenon of parasitism. The organisms, which feed on decayed and dead organic matter are known as saprophytes. 
Parasites : 1. These organisms use intracellular digestion.
2. Parasites attain nutrition from the host via a unique organ known as haustoria.
3. Parasites are either multicellular, unicellular, or filamentous.
4. They do not do any essential activity in the ecosystem, they only exhibit harmful effects.
5. They do not secrete or discharge any specific enzymes.
Saprophytes : 1. These organisms use extracellular digestion.
2. Saprophytes get nutrition via their cell wall.
3. Saprophytes are filamentous or unicellular amoeboid.
4. They perform an essential part in the recycling process in the ecosystem. They take part in the biogeochemical cycles.
5. They secrete enzymes, which help to digest the dead and decaying organic matter.