Parasites
* Definition: Organisms that live in or on another organism (the host) and obtain their nourishment from that host. This can harm the host.
* Examples: Ticks, tapeworms, mistletoe, some fungi.
Epiphytes
* Definition: Plants that grow on other plants (usually trees) for support but do not derive nutrients from their host. They obtain their nutrients and water from the air and rain.
* Examples: Orchids, bromeliads, ferns, mosses.
So, the key difference is how they get their nutrients:
* Parasites take nutrients directly from their host, often harming it.
* Epiphytes are independent in terms of nutrition, using their host only for physical support.
Let me know if you'd like to know more about any of these fascinating organisms!
