Conservation biology of parasites
A large proportion of living species on Earth live a
The rationale for parasite conservation extends beyond their intrinsic value and ecological roles. Parasites offer potential benefits to human health and well-being. Many parasites produce
Parasite role in ecosystems
Ranging from microscopic pathogens to larger organisms such as worms and arthropods, parasites exhibit remarkable diversity in their life cycles, transmission strategies, and host relationships. They can be found in virtually every ecosystem on Earth, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments. Parasites often rely on one or multiple host species to complete their life cycle, and their presence can have profound effects on host populations, communities, and even entire ecosystems.[3][4] One of the fundamental aspects of parasite ecology is their role as a trophic level within the food web.[5] Parasites can occupy various positions within the trophic hierarchy, acting as predators, consumers, or even decomposers.[6] They regulate host populations by influencing host behavior, growth, and reproduction. Furthermore, parasites can indirectly shape community dynamics by mediating interactions between host species and influencing the distribution and abundance of other organisms within the ecosystem.[1][2]
Despite their ecological significance, parasites have historically received less attention in conservation efforts compared to other groups of organisms. However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of parasite conservation.[3] Ecologists and conservation biologists have emphasized the need for research to understand the ecological roles of parasites, as well as the threats they face and the potential consequences of their decline or extinction. Integrating parasite conservation into broader conservation frameworks is crucial for maintaining the integrity and functionality of ecosystems.[1][2][4]
Conservation approaches
Conservation approaches for animal parasites encompass a range of strategies tailored to their unique characteristics and conservation requirements. Assessing the conservation status of parasites poses challenges, as traditional criteria such as those developed by the IUCN may not adequately capture the specific threats and vulnerabilities of these organisms.[3] Efforts often focus on conserving host species, recognizing that protecting the host also benefits associated parasites. This includes habitat conservation, management of host populations, and minimizing anthropogenic impacts.[1]
Nuances arise in parasite conservation when considering translocating species or implementing captive breeding programs. It is essential to consider the potential effects on parasite populations and ensure that appropriate measures are in place to safeguard their survival. In situ conservation, which involves the preservation and management of parasites within their natural habitats, is a key approach. Additionally, ex situ conservation methods, such as maintaining parasite populations in controlled environments, can serve as a safety net for critically endangered species.[4]
Endangered parasite species
A note published in 1990 pointed out that the
A recent study on parasites of
Examples of parasite conservation
The list below follows that of Mey (2005)[17]
- Acutifrons caracarensis, parasite of the extinct Guadalupe caracara (Caracara lutosa), Guadalupe Island, Mexico.
- Archaeocroton sphenodoni, parasite of the tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus), New Zealand.
- Coloceras hemiphagae, parasite of the extinct Norfolk Island pigeon (Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae spadicea), Norfolk Island, New Zealand.
- Coloceras restinctus, parasite of the extinct Norfolk Island pigeon(Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae spadicea), Norfolk Island, New Zealand.
- Colpocephalum californici, parasite of the California condor (Gymnogyps californianus), western North America. The host was saved by a captive breeding and repatriation program, but the parasite was driven to extinction, deliberately killed whenever it was found during the program to ensure condor survival.[1]
- Columbicola extinctus, parasite of the extinct passenger pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius), eastern North America. However, recent taxonomic studies show that it is conspecific with the lice living on band-tailed pigeon (Patagioenas fasciata), thus it is not extinct.[18]
- Felicola isidoroi, parasite of the endangered Iberian lynx. Similarly to C. californici, it is thought extinct after conservation efforts deloused captive lynxes.
- Longimenopon dominicanum, parasite of the extinct Guadalupe storm petrel (Oceanodroma macrodactyla), Guadelupe Island, Mexico.
- Philopteroides xenicus, parasite of the extinct bushwren (Xenicus longipes), New Zealand.
- Psittacobrosus bechsteini, parasite of the extinct Cuban red macaw (Ara tricolor), Cuba.
- Rallicola piageti, parasite of the possibly extinct New Caledonian rail (Cabalus lafresnayanus), New Caledonia.
- Rallicola extinctus, parasite of the extinct huia (Heteralocha acutirostris), New Zealand.[19]
See also
References
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- ^ Mey, Eberhard (2005). "Psittacobrosus bechsteini: ein neuer ausgestorbener Federling (Insecta, Phthiraptera, Amblycera) vom Dreifarbenara Ara tricolor (Psittaciiformes), nebst einer annotierten Übersicht über fossile und rezent ausgestorbene Tierläuse" [Psittacobrosus bechsteini: a new extinct chewing louse (Insecta, Phthiraptera, Amblycera) off the Cuban Macaw Ara tricolor (Psittaciiformes), with an annotated review of fossil and recently extinct animal lice] (PDF). Anzeiger des Vereins Thüringer Ornithologen. 5: 201–217. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2013-12-27. Retrieved 2017-10-31.
- doi:10.1093/aesa/92.5.675. Archived from the original(PDF) on 2012-04-25. Retrieved 2011-12-03.
- ^ Mey E (1992). "Eine neue ausgestorbene Vogel-Ischnozere von Neuseeland, Huiacola extinctus (Insecta, Phthiraptera)" (PDF). Zoologischer Anzeiger. 224: 49–73. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2007-10-12.