ectozoon

[ ek-tuh-zoh-on, -uh n ]

/ ˌɛk təˈzoʊ ɒn, -ən /

any animal parasite, as the louse, that lives on the surface of its host (opposed to entozoon).

Also ectozoan.

Origin of ectozoon

First recorded in 1855–60; ecto- + -zoon

In reference to the ectozoa of rodents it may be said that they are very numerous.

Parasites |T. Spencer Cobbold
The ectozoa of the dog, though not numerous as species, are of importance in relation to mange.

Parasites |T. Spencer Cobbold
In like manner a great deal has been written respecting the ectozoa of fishes.

Parasites |T. Spencer Cobbold
The ectozoa of ruminants have received much attention, but I can merely indicate the known forms.

Parasites |T. Spencer Cobbold

It conveniently stands thus, moreover, in direct contradiction to the term Ectozoa.

Parasites |T. Spencer Cobbold

ectozoon

[ ĕk′tə-zō′ŏn′ ]

An animal parasite, such as a flea or louse, living on the exterior of the host organism.