Biology Coach: AH Bio, Topic 2, Key Area 5c Flashcards

Transmission

spread of a parasite to a host.

Virulence

the harm caused to a host species by a parasite

Ectoparasite transmission

generally transmitted through direct contact or by consumption of intermediate hosts

Endoparasite transmission

often transmitted by vectors

Factors increase transmission rates

overcrowding of hosts when they are at high density; mechanism, such as vectors and waterborne dispersal stages, that allow the parasite to spread even if infected hosts are incapacitated.

Ways to modify host behaviour by a parasite

alteration of foraging behaviour, movement, sexual behaviour, habitat choice or anti-predator behaviour

Extended phenotype of the parasite

ways that a host behaviour can be modified as a result of parasitic infection

Other parasitic effects on host

suppression of host immune system and modification of host size and reproductive rate in ways that benefit parasitic growth, reproduction or transmission.