Transmission And Virulence Flashcards
Transmission
The spread of a parasite to a host
Virulence
The harm caused to a host species by a parasite
Ectoparasite transmission
Through direct contact or by consumption of intermediate hosts.
Endoparasites transmission
Vectors
Factors that increase transmission rates
The overcrowding of hosts when they are at high density mechanisms, such as vectors and waterborne dispersal stages, that allow the parasite to spread even if infected hosts are incapacitated.
Ways in which parasites alter the behaviour of hosts
- foraging behaviour
- movement
- sexual behaviour
- habitat choice
- anti-predator behaviour
Why is host behaviour often exploited and modified by parasites
To maximise transmission
How do parasites affect hosts
They often suppress the host immune system, modify host size and reproductive rate
What benefit do parasites gain from manipulating their hosts?
Growth, reproduction or transmission
