PARASITOLOGY: Chapter 2 - Basic Principles and Concepts

Flashcards cover key principles and concepts related to parasite systematics, ecology, and evolution as discussed in Chapter 2 of the lecture.

What is the study of biological diversity and classification called?

Systematics.

Why is accurate identification and classification of organisms essential?

It is crucial for ecology, evolution, and parasitology.

What role do molecular techniques play in parasite systematics?

Molecular techniques, such as DNA sequencing, help resolve taxonomic uncertainties.

What does parasite ecology focus on?

Interactions between parasites and their hosts, including their abiotic environment.

What is the ecological niche of a parasite?

It includes both the host and the abiotic environment.

What is prevalence in terms of parasite populations?

The proportion of a population infected.

What distinguishes macroparasites from microparasites?

Macroparasites are large and do not multiply within the host, while microparasites are small and do multiply within the host.

What is the significance of quantitative data for epidemiologists?

It is crucial for understanding parasite distribution within a host population for disease control.

What is epidemiology?

The study of diseases in populations, including their transmission, distribution, prevalence, and incidence.

What influences parasite population structure?

Factors like host genetics, behavior, and environment.

What is the traditional view of virulence evolution in parasites?

Parasites evolve towards reduced virulence to protect their host.

What factors influence the evolutionary associations between parasites and hosts?

Descent and colonization.

What is a common strategy for increasing the chances of offspring survival in parasites?

Massive egg production.

What does the term 'aggregated populations' refer to?

Most parasites are found in a few hosts.

What is a potential role of parasitism in host populations?

Maintaining genetic diversity.

What do phylogenetic trees represent?

Evolutionary relationships based on shared derived traits.