2.5c Transmission and Virulence Flashcards
1
Q
What is transmission?
A
the spread of a parasite to a host
2
Q
what is virulence?
A
the harm caused to a host species by a parasite
3
Q
How are ectoparasites generally transmitted?
A
through direct contact
4
Q
How are endoparasies often transmitted?
A
by vectors or by consumption of intermediate hosts
5
Q
What are factors that increase transmission rates?
A
- overcrowding of hosts when they are at a high density
- mechanisms, such as vectors and waterborne dispersal stages, that allow the parasite to spread even if infected hosts are incapacitated
6
Q
Explain host behavior and parasites
A
- host behaviors is often exploited and modified by parasites to maximise transmission
- the host behaviors becomes part of the extended phenotype of the parasite
7
Q
Explain the effect of parasites on the host immune system
A
- parasites often suppress the host immune system
- and modify host size and reproductive rate
- in ways that benefit the parasite growth, reproduction or transmission
