Differences between saprophytes and parasites

Below is the differences Between Saprophytes and Parasites-

1. Source of Food

• Saprophytes: Feed on dead and decaying organic matter.
• Parasites: Feed on living organisms (host).

2. Mode of Nutrition

• Saprophytes: Perform saprophytic nutrition by secreting enzymes that break down complex substances externally, then absorb the simpler nutrients.
• Parasites: Perform parasitic nutrition by directly drawing nutrients from the host’s body.

3. Effect on Host

• Saprophytes: Do not harm any living organism; they help recycle nutrients in nature.
• Parasites: Harm the host by taking nutrients, sometimes causing diseases.

4. Examples

• Saprophytes: Fungi (mushrooms, mold), certain bacteria.
• Parasites: Tapeworm, lice, Plasmodium (malarial parasite), mistletoe plant.

5. Role in Ecosystem

• Saprophytes: Decomposers; important for nutrient recycling and maintaining ecological balance.
• Parasites: Regulate host populations but can weaken or kill hosts.