Manipulation of Host Behavior by Parasitic Insects and Insect Parasites

Author:

Libersat Frederic1,Delago Antonia2,Gal Ram2

Affiliation:

1. Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée, Parc scientifique de Luminy, BP13, 13273 Marseille cedex 09, France;

2. Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 653, Be'er Sheva, 84105 Israel

Abstract

Parasites often alter the behavior of their hosts in ways that are ultimately beneficial to the parasite or its offspring. Although the alteration of host behavior by parasites is a widespread phenomenon, the underlying neuronal mechanisms are only beginning to be understood. Here, we focus on recent advances in the study of behavioral manipulation via modulation of the host central nervous system. We elaborate on a few case studies, in which recently published data provide explanations for the neuronal basis of parasite-induced alteration of host behavior. Among these, we describe how a worm may influence the nervous system of its cricket host and manipulate the cricket into committing suicide by jumping into water. We then focus on Ampulex compressa, which uses an Alien-like strategy for the sake of its offspring. Unlike most venomous hunters, this wasp injects venom directly into specific cerebral regions of its cockroach prey. As a result of the sting, the cockroach remains alive but immobile, but not paralyzed, and serves to nourish the developing wasp larva.

Publisher

Annual Reviews

Subject

Insect Science,Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics

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