Prashant Kumar
Zoology
March 2021
An knowledge of ecosystem structure and function is necessary for successful management of our natural resources; in other words, an ecosystem-based management strategy. Even though they are cryptic, parasites can be found in practically all habitats, yet research on populations and communities of species often ignore them. Parasites may significantly or subtly alter the behaviour, growth, fertility, and mortality of their hosts. Parasites may also control host population dynamics and have an impact on community structure. Many parasites have intricate life cycles and rely on a number of intermediary vertebrate and invertebrate hosts for transmission. Predator-prey interactions often play a role in transmission. Therefore, parasites are an indication of changes in ecosystem structure and function and reflect the host's place in the food chain. The population structure, evolutionary theories, environmental stresses, trophic relationships, biodiversity, and climatic conditions may all be learned from parasites. In order to optimise the information acquired for ecosystem-based studies and resource management, I provide examples from a variety of freshwater and marine systems to show that parasites should be included in research and monitoring programmes.
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© Airo Journals 2021
