Adaptive parasitic manipulation as exemplified by acanthocephalans

Abstract Parasites with complex life cycles often change intermediate host traits in order to enhance their transmission to the next host. Acanthocephalans are excellent examples of such parasitic manipulation. Here, we summarise evidence for adaptive parasitic manipulation in this group, provide a comprehensive overview of intermediate host traits affected by these parasites and discuss critical items for parasitic manipulation such as avoidance of infected prey by target hosts and transmission to dead‐end hosts.
Source: Ethology - Category: Zoology Authors: Tags: INVITED PERSPECTIVES AND REVIEWS Source Type: research