Vector-borne parasites decrease host mobility: a field test of freeze or flee behaviour of willow ptarmigan
Per R Holmstad1, Knut Helge Jensen, Arne Skorping
1Department of Biology, University of Bergen, Realfagbygget, Allègaten 41, 5007 Bergen, Norway. per.holstad@bio.uib.no
International Journal for Parasitology
|May 16, 2006
Summary
Vector-borne parasites, unlike directly transmitted ones, can reduce host mobility. Higher intensities of vector-borne parasites, particularly Leucocytozoon lovati, were linked to stronger freezing responses in willow ptarmigan.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Parasitology
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Parasite transmission mode is theorized to influence virulence.
- Vector-borne parasites may exploit host resources more, potentially increasing virulence, as they are less reliant on host mobility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between parasite transmission mode and its impact on host mobility.
- To test if parasite infection levels correlate with host anti-predator responses (freeze-or-flee).
Main Methods:
- Examined endoparasite infracommunities in willow ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus L.).
- Quantified infection levels of vector-borne, directly transmitted, and indirectly transmitted parasites.
- Assessed host mobility by observing freeze-or-flee responses over a 9-year period.
Main Results:
- Higher intensities of vector-borne parasites, especially Leucocytozoon lovati, were associated with stronger freezing responses.
- No significant association was found between freezing responses and parasites transmitted directly or indirectly.
- Vector-borne parasites appeared to reduce host movement, while others did not.
Conclusions:
- Parasite transmission mode influences host behavior and mobility.
- Vector-borne parasites may exert greater control over host movement, potentially indicating higher virulence or resource exploitation.
