Parasites: Evolution's Hijackers on Earth

Parasites have the ability to manipulate their hosts in ways that benefit the parasite, often to the detriment of the host. This is known as adaptive host manipulation hypothesis. While some parasites change the physical appearance of their hosts, others alter their behavior. Parasites and hosts engage in an evolutionary arms race, with the parasite developing adaptations to infect hosts and the host increasing resistance and tolerance to parasites. Understanding how parasites manipulate their hosts could have implications for treating and preventing diseases.