Texas State Manicurist Written Practice Exam

What type of organism must have a host to survive?

1. Bacteria

2. Virus

3. Parasite

4. Fungus

The correct answer is: Parasite

The type of organism that must have a host to survive is a parasite. Parasites rely on a host organism to provide the necessary nutrients and environment for their growth and reproduction. They can live on or inside their host, often causing harm in the process. This dependence on a host for survival distinguishes parasites from other organisms. Bacteria, while often needing conditions to thrive, can exist independently in various environments, including soil and water. Viruses require a host to replicate, but they are not considered living organisms outside of a host because they cannot carry out any life processes on their own. Fungi can grow in many environments, absorbing nutrients from organic matter without needing a living host, although some may have parasitic forms. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why a parasite is the correct answer when discussing organisms reliant on hosts for survival.