Towards a functional explanation for the occurrence of anorexia during parasitic infections

摘要: The development and occurrence of anorexia, the voluntary reduction in food intake during parasitic infections animals, is somewhat paradoxical contrary to conventional wisdom expectation. We take view that its an evolved, costly behavioural adaptation which serves a function. Five such functional general hypotheses account for it are developed: (1) anorexia induced by parasite own benefit; (2) decreases starve parasites; (3) negative effect on host's energetic efficiency diseases has direct consumption; (4) purpose promoting effective immune response host; (5) allows host become more selective diet, thus select foods either minimize risk infection or high antiparasitic compounds. Only survive comparison consistency with physiological, metabolic alterations occur infections, rule generality (i.e. both protozoan helminth infections). Both surviving will need further experimental testing their support rejection, experiments proposed. Also, advantages consequences viewing within framework discussed. These arise from recognition disease-coping strategy, part mechanism invasion system, leads modification feeding behaviour.