GENERAL CONCEPTS ON THE EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY OF PARASITES.

摘要: Parasitism is a very common way of life, and probably the prevalent means obtaining food among organisms. Adaptive radiation parasites has been extensive, yet ecological evolutionary concepts on parasitism are poorly developed. Although Elton (1927) devoted chapter in his pioneering ecology book to conclusion was that resemblances between predators more important than differences. This attitude now texts (e.g. Andrewartha Birch, 1954; Odum, 1971; Krebs, 1972; Colinvaux, 1973), although much attention predation, almost ignored. Therefore, by using inductive process, this paper attempts synthesis parasitology, need for which recognized Kennedy (1975), it explores implications parasite ecology. should contribute an understanding three ways. First, reevaluation abundance parasitic species made. Arndt (1940) estimated 25% animals Germany others. Rothschild Clay (1952) stated exceed nonparasitic number individuals, but provided little numerical support. A careful quantitative evaluation Askew (1971) estimate 15% insects, 10% all animal insects. Calculations presented indicate well over 50% organisms extant today parasitic. Second, general evolution presented, being derived from combination population biology, theory biology. Third, predictions act as guide critical characteristics biology be examined tested natural populations.