Butterflies And Bats Reveal Clues About Spread Of Infectious Disease

The video explores the migration of monarch butterflies and the research of ecologist Sonia Altizer, who studies the impact of migration on the spread of infectious diseases. Monarchs are affected by the OE parasite, which reduces their flight capability. Migration can lower infection rates, as only the strong survive the journey. Human activities disrupt migration, increasing disease risk. Altizer's team also studies rabies in vampire bats in Peru, where livestock introduction has increased bat populations. Altizer collaborates with citizen scientists to understand global pathogen spread.

What is the primary focus of Sonia Altizer's research on monarch butterflies?

• The genetic diversity of monarch butterflies

• How long-distance migration affects disease spread

• The role of monarch butterflies in pollination

• The impact of climate change on butterfly migration

What is the name of the parasite studied in monarch butterflies?

• Plasmodium falciparum

• Ophryocystis elektroscirrha

• Toxoplasma gondii

• Trypanosoma cruzi

How does long-distance travel affect infection rates in insects and birds?

• It causes new diseases to emerge

• It has no effect on infection rates

• It increases infection rates

• It decreases infection rates

What human activities are disrupting monarch butterfly migration patterns?

• Urbanization and industrialization

• Deforestation and mining

• Habitat destruction and herbicide use

• Climate change and pollution

What is a potential consequence of increased vampire bat populations in Peru?

• A rise in malaria cases

• A decrease in livestock populations

• An increase in rabies outbreaks

• A decline in bat biodiversity