Parasite Rex

Authors: Carl Zimmer

Key Ideas

1. Parasites are a diverse group of organisms that have evolved various strategies to exploit and survive within their hosts. For example, some parasites manipulate the behavior of their hosts to increase their own chances of reproduction and transmission.
2. Many parasites have complex life cycles that involve multiple hosts. This allows them to colonize different environments and maximize their chances of finding a suitable host.
3. Parasites can have profound effects on the health and behavior of their hosts. They can cause diseases, alter the host's immune system, and even influence the ho....
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Quiz

1. What are parasites?

Organisms that exploit and survive within their hosts

Bacteria that cause infections

Small insects that live in the host's hair

Fungi that grow on the host's skin

2. What is an example of a parasite that manipulates its host's behavior?

Malaria parasite

Lancet liver fluke

Ringworm fungus

Lice

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