Parasites in Social Insects

First analysis of how parasites shape the biology of ants, wasps, bees and termites. The author, the head of a research group on the evolutionary ecology of host-parasite interactions at ETH (Zurich), provides an overview of the existing knowledge of parasites in social insects. Current ideas are evaluated using a broad database, and the role of parasites for the evolution and maintenance of the social organisation and biology of insects is carefully scutinised. In addition, Schmid-Hempel develops new insights, especially in his examination of the intricate relationships between parasites and their social hosts through the rigorous use of evolutionary and ecological concepts.

<TABLE><TR><TD> <TD>Preface and Acknowledgments <TD>The Biology of Social Insects <TR><TD>2 <TD>The Parasites and Their Biology <TR><TD>3 <TD>Breaking into the Fortress <TR><TD>4 <TD>Parasites and the Organization of the Colony <TR><TD>5 <TD>Breeding Strategies and Parasites <TR><TD>6 <TD>Host-Parasite Dynamics <TR><TD>7 <TD>Virulence and Resistance <TR><TD>8 <TD>Social Evolution <TR><TD> <TD>App. 1: Glossary <TR><TD>App. 2 <TD>The Parasites of Social Insects <TR><TD> <TD>References <TR><TD> <TD>Subject Index <TR><TD> <TD>Host Taxonomic Index <TR><TD> <TD>Parasite Taxonomic Index <TR><TD> <TD>Author Index