What is parasitic stage?

The parasitic stage refers to the phase in the life cycle of a parasite during which it lives and feeds on a host organism, deriving nutrients at the host's expense. This stage often involves the parasite's adaptation to the host's environment, allowing it to survive and reproduce. Parasitic stages can vary widely among different types of parasites, including protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites, and may involve complex interactions with the host's immune system.