Ecological Parasitology and Animal Physiology
Prof. Dr. Sven Klimpel, klimpel@bio.uni-frankfurt.de, Phone +49 69
798 42237
Prof. Dr. Jens Amendt, amendt@em.uni-frankfurt.de, Phone +49 69
6301 7571
Dr. Dorian D. D枚rge; doerge@bio.uni-frankfurt.de, Phone +49 69 798 42069Prof. ,
Module Information
Parasitism
has evolved as a lifestyle in different classes of organisms and is considered
the most successful life strategy on our planet. Every living organism is used
as a host by a parasite at least once during its life cycle. In aquatic and
terrestrial ecosystems, a great variety of different parasite species can be
found, and thus parasites form a decisive part of biodiversity.
The
influence of abiotic/biotic factors on the diversity, distribution and
abundance of parasites also has direct/indirect effects on the health of
humans, livestock and wildlife, with sometimes dramatic humanitarian,
ecological and economic consequences.
Depending
on the animal group and the geographical region, the current state of knowledge
on the global diversity of parasites varies greatly. Therefore, the core topics
explored in the practical course are accordingly broad. They range from the
identification/description of parasites and vectors to determine their current
distribution to the clarification of the phenotypic/genetic evolution of their
dispersal ability and the experimental/field-based analysis of pathogenicity
factors and transmission abilities (e.g. life cycles).
Upon completion of the
module, students will have acquired a comprehensive knowledge of the globally
important parasites (parasitoses) of humans as well as livestock and wildlife,
with a particular focus on host-parasite interaction, their life cycles and
transmission mechanisms.
Timeslot of the Module 鈥� first half of Winter
semester
Number of particiants 鈥� 12
Special features 鈥� The module can be carried out entirely or partly in English in
consultation with the students. Parts of the module are carried out in the
field (e.g. excursion) and outside Frankfurt.