Evolutionary Ecology of Parasites: From individuals to communities

by Robert Poulin

Overview

Parasites evolve under selective pressures which are different from those acting on free-living organisms. The aim of this textbook is to present these pressures and to show how they have shaped the ecology of parasites over evolutionary time. Broad theoretical concepts are explained simply and clearly and illustrated throughout with example organisms. The book will be an invaluable text for advanced undergraduate biologists who are studying evolutionary biology, ecology, population biology, parasitology and evoluationary ecology. It will also prove to be a valuable reference to postgraduate students and researchers in the same fields.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780412805608
Publisher:	Springer Netherlands
Publication date:	10/31/1997
Edition description:	1997
Pages:	214
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.02(d)

Table of Contents

Preface. Introduction. Origins of parasitism and complex life cycles. Host specificity. Evolution of parasite life history strategies. Strategies of host exploitation. Parasite aggregation: causes and consequences. Parasite population dynamics. Interactions between parasite species. Parasite infracommunity structure. Component communities and parasite faunas. Conclusion. Reference. Index.

Editorial Reviews

‘The index is well organised. The book is necessary reading for any parasitologist interested in the ecology and evolution of parasites. It should also be read by ecologists working on other groups, who often tend to ignore parasites. Because of its clarity and conciseness, the book is also recommended as an introductory text for students.'
International Journal for Parasitology, 28 (1998)

From the Publisher