Host manipulation by parasites: From individual to collective behavior

Abstract

AbstractOne of the most captivating aspects of host–parasite interactions is the ability of some parasites to manipulate host behavior to increase the parasites’ own fitness. This chapter examines the behavioral targets of manipulation, and how these may manifest in terms of two newer fields of study; animal personality and animal social networks. Effects on personality include changes in individual traits (e.g., increased boldness) and variation in traits (e.g., homogenizing behavior), and the uncoupling of behavioral syndromes. Changes to social behavior (e.g., increased aggregation) may alter the structure of animal societies, as well as the transmission pathways of other parasites or diseases, leading to feedbacks between infection and behavior. Most research has focused on the manipulation of discrete behaviors, but newer fields of study are highlighting how parasite manipulation of host behavior may lead to wider effects on host–parasite systems.