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Behavioral adaptations to pathogens and parasites: five strategies
1Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis 95616.
Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Wild animals evolve behaviors to combat parasites, enhancing survival and reproduction. These strategies include avoidance, controlled exposure, sickness behaviors, mutual aid, and mate selection for parasite resistance.
Area of Science:
- Zoology
- Behavioral Ecology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Parasitic infections are a constant threat to wildlife, influencing evolutionary pressures.
- Vertebrates exhibit diverse behaviors to mitigate parasite-induced fitness costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and categorize behavioral strategies vertebrates use for parasite control.
- To establish criteria for attributing evolved behavioral functions to parasite resistance.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing research on animal behavior and parasitology.
- Analysis of behavioral patterns in the context of parasite exposure and fitness outcomes.
Main Results:
- Five key behavioral strategies for parasite control were identified: avoidance, controlled exposure, sickness behaviors, alloparental care, and sexual selection for resistance.
- Evidence suggests these behaviors enhance individual or inclusive fitness by reducing parasite impact.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral adaptations play a crucial role in vertebrate survival and reproduction amidst parasitic challenges.
- Demonstrating a fitness benefit and a direct link to parasite mitigation is essential for confirming evolved parasite-control functions of behaviors.