Question

toxoplasmosis: a cause for concern? toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by the microscopic parasite toxoplasma gondii. the parasite usually infects mice, affecting their nervous system and causing them to take unusual risks (such as running out in the open, and coming unusually close to animals which may eat them). scientists believe this is actually a way for the parasite to reach its primary host - cats. when a cat catches and eats an infected mouse, the toxopasma gondii enters its digestive system and steals nutrients from the cat. humans can become infected by toxoplasma gondii through contact with cat feces. scientists now believe that toxoplasmosis in humans can cause substantial changes in mood and behavior, and may even be linked to certain types of depression. it is estimated that 30 - 65% of people worldwide may be infected with toxoplasma gondii. 9. based on the story above, discuss how the organisms interact with each other. in your response, be sure to: identify at least two different symbiotic relationships involved in toxoplasma gondii transmission and explain each

Explanation:

1. Parasitism: Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite. It infects mice, affecting their nervous - system and using them as an intermediate host to reach its primary host, cats. In cats, it enters the digestive system and steals nutrients.
2. Parasitism in humans: Humans can be infected by Toxoplasma gondii through contact with cat feces. The parasite can cause mood and behavior changes in humans, indicating it is a parasite - host relationship.

Answer:

1. Parasitism between Toxoplasma gondii and mice: The parasite infects mice, altering their behavior to increase the chance of being eaten by cats, which benefits the parasite's life - cycle.
2. Parasitism between Toxoplasma gondii and humans: Humans can be infected, and the parasite may cause changes in mood and behavior, harming the human host.