What term describes an animal capable of transmitting diseases or causing discomfort?

The term that describes an animal capable of transmitting diseases or causing discomfort is "vector." In the context of vector control, a vector is typically an organism, such as mosquitoes or ticks, that carries pathogens and can transfer them to humans or other animals. This transmission can lead to various diseases, making the understanding of vectors critical in public health and pest management.

Vectors play a significant role in the life cycle of many pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria, contributing to the spread of diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease. Effective vector management is essential for controlling these diseases, emphasizing the importance of identifying and targeting vectors in vector control practices.

While the other terms relate to organisms that can impact the environment or human health, they do not encompass the specific role of an organism in transmitting diseases. Invasive species refer to non-native organisms that disrupt ecosystems. A pest is typically defined as any organism that harms human interests, but it may not specifically transmit diseases. A parasite, while it does live off another organism and may cause discomfort or harm, does not refer to the broader category of disease-transmitting organisms as vectors do.