Stream Ecosystems and Parasites

A stream ecosystem

Parasites are creatures that feed off other living organisms. In a parasitic relationship, the host is harmed while the parasite benefits. Various parasites infest all climates and ecosystems, including streams.

Parasitic Animals

Helminths, a type of roundworm, are a common parasite in tropical waters. Streams in temperate climates harbor parasites like leeches and blood flukes. These types of parasites may burrow into human skin and lay eggs, causing severe illness or even death.

Parasitic Protists

Protists are single-celled organisms. Most protists need water to live, and stream ecosystems offer just the right environment. Drinking fresh water from streams without boiling it first can lead to infection. In addition, swimming in infested waters may lead to sickness such as amoebic dysentery. Malaria is also caused by a parasitic protist.

Parasitic Bacteria

Feces from animals in a stream ecosystem contribute parasitic bacteria to the water. Swallowing this water could cause gastrointestinal distress. Seek medical attention immediately for strong antibiotics. Keep hydrated with clean water to reduce the effects.

References

• PubMed: Parasites in Paradise
• Stanford University: ParaSite
• Palomar College: Infectious Human Parasites: Protozoa
• Rochester University: Viruses, Bacteria, and Parasites in the Digestive Tract

Resources

• Des Moines Area Community College: Human Parasites