Definition

1. Noun:
   • The host in which the sexual reproduction of a parasite takes place: In parasitology, a "definitive host" is the organism in which a parasite reaches maturity and reproduces sexually. This host harbors the adult, sexually mature stage of the parasite.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Humans are the definitive host for the tapeworm Taenia saginata.
  • The mosquito serves as the definitive host for the malaria parasite, where sexual reproduction occurs.
  • Identifying the definitive host is crucial for understanding a parasite's life cycle.

Advanced Usage

• "To act as a definitive host": To function as the organism where a parasite's sexual phase is completed.
  • The cat can act as the definitive host for Toxoplasma gondii.
• "Primary definitive host": The main or most common host species for the parasite's sexual reproduction.
  • While several mammals can be infected, the dog is considered the primary definitive host for Leishmania infantum.

Variants and Related Words

• Intermediate host (n): A host in which a parasite undergoes development or asexual reproduction but does not reach sexual maturity.
  • The snail is an intermediate host for the schistosome parasite.
• Paratenic host (n): A host that is not necessary for the parasite's development but can harbor and transmit it.
• Reservoir host (n): An animal that harbors a parasite and can serve as a source of infection for other species, including humans.

Synonyms

• Final host: A less common synonym for definitive host.
• Primary host: Sometimes used interchangeably, though it can also refer to the main host in a life cycle, which may not always be the site of sexual reproduction.

Related Phrases

• Definitive host specificity: The degree to which a parasite is restricted to a particular species or group of species for its sexual reproduction.
  • The parasite shows high definitive host specificity, reproducing only in canids.

Noun

1. the host in which the sexual reproduction of a parasite takes place