What characteristic describes a facultative parasite?

A facultative parasite is characterized by its ability to adapt to different environments, including life outside a host. This includes being capable of entering a dormant state, which allows it to survive in unfavorable conditions until a suitable host becomes available.

The capability to remain dormant is significant because it enables facultative parasites to endure periods without a host while still having the potential to exploit hosts when they become available. This adaptability stands in contrast to obligate parasites, which rely entirely on a host for survival and cannot live independently.

While a facultative parasite can indeed survive without a host and reactivate when conditions are favorable, focusing on its ability to enter a dormant stage highlights its versatile nature and survival strategy. This characteristic is pivotal in understanding the biology of parasites and their interactions with hosts.