Parasite Ecology

Parasite ecology studies the relationships between parasites and their hosts, focusing on how these interactions affect both the parasites' survival and the hosts' health. Parasites, which can be bacteria, viruses, fungi, or larger organisms like worms, depend on their hosts for food and reproduction. This relationship can harm the host, leading to diseases or weakened immunity, while the parasite thrives. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for managing health risks in humans, animals, and ecosystems, as parasites play significant roles in biodiversity and can influence population dynamics and the balance of various species.