Parasites and Their Hosts

The video explores the ancient history of parasitism, highlighting six of the oldest known parasites. It covers schistosomes in humans, ancient parasite DNA in coprolites, parasitoid wasps, mind-controlling fungi, tapeworms in sharks, and the earliest animal parasites. These examples illustrate the long-standing success of parasitism as a life strategy and its impact on evolution and ecosystems.

What percentage of living animal species are considered parasitic?

• 75%

• 25%

• 10%

• 50%

Which disease is caused by schistosomes and is second only to malaria in terms of devastation?

• Schistosomiasis

• Tuberculosis

• Dengue

• Cholera

What type of fossil was used to identify the oldest known parasite DNA?

• Petrified wood

• Coprolite

• Sedimentary rock

• Amber

Which species was identified as the host of the oldest known parasite DNA?

• Lion

• Puma

• Elephant

• Bear

What is the term for wasps that lay their eggs inside other insects, leading to the host's death?

• Scavengers

• Parasitoids

• Predators

• Parasites

What is the name of the new genus of parasitoid wasps discovered in fossilized fly pupae?

• Xenomorphia

• Waspius

• Insectivora

• Alienus

Which modern-day fungi are known for mind-controlling their insect hosts?

• Amanita

• Ophiocordyceps

• Penicillium

• Aspergillus

What is the longest length a tapeworm can grow to?

• 15 meters

• 25 meters

• 10 meters

• 5 meters

What type of ancient animal was found to have the oldest evidence of a tapeworm infection?

• Mammoth

• Dinosaur

• Crocodile

• Shark

What is the term for the strategy where parasites steal resources from their host?

• Symbiosis

• Parasitism

• Mutualism

• Kleptoparasitism