In the savanna biome, a common example of parasitism is the relationship between ticks and large mammals such as zebras or buffaloes. Ticks are external parasites that feed on the blood of these animals. They attach themselves to the skin of the host, often causing irritation, discomfort, and sometimes transmitting diseases.
This relationship is parasitic because the tick benefits by obtaining nutrients from the host’s blood, while the host is harmed. The harm can range from mild irritation to severe health issues, depending on the number of ticks and the health of the host. This interaction is a classic example of how parasites can impact the health and well-being of their hosts in the savanna ecosystem.