Social Organization and Parasite Risk in Mammals: Integrating Theory and Empirical Studies
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation · Zoological Society of London · +4 more institutions
Abstract
▪ Abstract Mammals are exposed to a diverse array of parasites and infectious diseases, many of which affect host survival and reproduction. Species that live in dense populations, large social groups, or with promiscuous mating systems may be especially vulnerable to infectious diseases owing to the close proximity and higher contact rates among individuals. We review the effects of host density and social contacts on parasite spread and the importance of promiscuity and mating structure for the spread and evolution of sexually transmitted diseases. Host social organization and mating system should influence not only parasite diversity and prevalence but may also determine the fitness advantages of different…
Citation impact
- FWCI
- 5.81
- Percentile
- 100%
- References
- 149
Authors
12- SASonia AltizerCorresponding
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Zoological Society of London, Emory University, Plant Industry, University of Virginia, University of California, Davis
- CLCharles L. Nunn
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Zoological Society of London, Emory University, Plant Industry, University of Virginia, University of California, Davis
- PHPeter H. Thrall
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Zoological Society of London, Emory University, Plant Industry, University of Virginia, University of California, Davis
- JLJohn L. Gittleman
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Zoological Society of London, Emory University, Plant Industry, University of Virginia, University of California, Davis
- JAJanis Antonovics
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Zoological Society of London, Emory University, Plant Industry, University of Virginia, University of California, Davis
Topics & keywords
- Sociality
- Promiscuity
- Biology
- Host (biology)
- Mating
- Mating preferences
- Infectious disease (medical specialty)
- Evolutionary biology