Evolutionary parasitology

Parasites lie at the heart of some big questions in biology (why there is sexual reproduction?). At the same time, they are of tremendous economic importance.

Salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis)

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Evolutionary parasitology aims to under the selection pressures created by parasites on their potential host populations. At the same time, parasites are under selection pressures themselves, trying to overcome whatever defences their hosts may evolve—or whatever medications or vaccinations humans may come up with in order to battle disease in both humans and in agri-/aquaculture.

Camilla Jensen in laboratory with tanks with salmon and salmon lice

Camilla and the evolving salmon lice

Camilla Jensen is working hard in the lab with her Master project on life-history adaptations in salmon lice.

Peter studying fish bones with a microscope

Peter starts his PhD in Evolutionary Fish Parasitology

Nestory Peter Gabagambi has started his PhD study in evolutionary fish parasitology. In his study Peter will focus on the interaction between a tapeworm and its fish host in Lake Nyasa/Malawi.

08.09.2014