Question

question 10
2 points
a saprobe differs from a parasite in that
a a saprobe does not harm a host that it lives on, whereas a parasite does harm a host
b a saprobe cannot infect a human, but a parasite is always infectious
c a saprobe is a fungus, but a parasite can be any type of microbe
d a saprobe derive nutrients from dead plants and animals, but a parasite derives nutrients from living plants and animals

Explanation:

• Option A: Incorrect. Saprobe does not live on a host. It feeds on dead organic matter. Parasite lives on a living host and harms it.
• Option B: Incorrect. Some saprobes can infect humans (e.g., certain fungi that cause opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals). Not all parasites are always infectious (e.g., some parasites may be in a dormant stage).
• Option C: Incorrect. Saprobes can be bacteria, fungi etc. Parasites can be protozoa, worms, fungi etc.
• Option D: Correct. Saprobes (e.g., many fungi, bacteria) decompose dead plants and animals. Parasites (e.g., tapeworms, malarial parasites) live on or in living plants and animals and obtain nutrients from them.

Answer:

D. a saprobe derive nutrients from dead plants and animals, but a parasite derives nutrients from living plants and animals