superparasite

A superparasite is a parasite that infects another parasite. This phenomenon is relatively rare in nature but has been observed in various species. Superparasites can be found in different ecosystems, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments. They often exploit the resources and hosts that their primary parasite has already established, leading to complex and sometimes unpredictable ecological interactions.

One notable example of a superparasite is the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis, which can infect the intermediate hosts of other tapeworms, such as Echinococcus granulosus. This superparasitism can lead to significant health issues in the intermediate hosts, including severe liver damage and even death.

Superparasitism can have various ecological implications. It can alter the dynamics of host-parasite interactions, potentially leading to changes in population sizes and community structures. Additionally, superparasites can influence the evolution of their primary parasites, as they may select for certain traits that enhance their own survival and reproduction.

The study of superparasitism is an active area of research in parasitology and ecology. Understanding this phenomenon can provide insights into the complex web of interactions that shape ecosystems and the evolution of parasitic species.