Odonata immunity, pathogens, and parasites

Abstract

Abstract Parasites and pathogens are a ubiquitous threat facing organisms within every ecological network. To protect themselves from parasites, organisms have evolved immune defenses. Insect immunity has received a great deal of attention, with numerous studies investigating the intersection of parasite pressure, immune function, and ecology. This chapter highlights how the investigation of odonate immunity has provided insight into how insect immunity operates within the ecological theatre under the threat of parasites. It first explains why odonates are an excellent model system for studies of immunity and parasites. It then reviews what is known of the parasites odonates harbor. Then, it covers the myriad mechanisms employed by odonates to defend themselves from their parasitic enemies. It also discusses key ecological and evolutionary studies that fall at the intersection of immunity and parasites.