Conservation biology of parasites

[3] Understanding and conserving parasite biodiversity not only contributes to the preservation of ecosystems but also holds promise for medical advancements and novel therapeutic interventions.

[1][4] Ranging from microscopic pathogens to larger organisms such as worms and arthropods, parasites exhibit remarkable diversity in their life cycles, transmission strategies, and host relationships.

Furthermore, parasites can indirectly shape community dynamics by mediating interactions between host species and influencing the distribution and abundance of other organisms within the ecosystem.

[1][2] Despite their ecological significance, parasites have historically received less attention in conservation efforts compared to other groups of organisms.

[3] Ecologists and conservation biologists have emphasized the need for research to understand the ecological roles of parasites, as well as the threats they face and the potential consequences of their decline or extinction.

Assessing the conservation status of parasites poses challenges, as traditional criteria such as those developed by the IUCN may not adequately capture the specific threats and vulnerabilities of these organisms.

Additionally, ex situ conservation methods, such as maintaining parasite populations in controlled environments, can serve as a safety net for critically endangered species.

[4] The world's first conservation program for a globally threatened parasite was launched in 2022 to save the Ryukyu rabbit tick (Haemaphysalis pentalagi).

The program is supported by the Ministry of the Environment (Japan), Hokkaido University, Mohamed Bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, and the IUCN SSC parasite specialist group.