Methods for the assessment and conservation of threatened animal parasites. (August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kwak, Mackenzie L.; Heath, Allen C.G.; Cardoso, Pedro
• Is Part Of: Biological conservation. Volume 248(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-08
• Subjects: CAMAP Conservation Assessment Methodology for Animal Parasites; Co-extinction -- Parasite conservation -- Invertebrate conservation -- IUCN -- Co-endangered; Conservation of natural resources -- Periodicals; Nature conservation -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Environmental Pollution -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 333.9516
• DOI: 10.1016/j.biocon.2020.108696
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0006-3207

Abstract

Abstract: Animal parasites are species rich and ecologically diverse, some with complex life cycles and life histories and consequently many are vulnerable to extinction. While the conservation biology community is becoming cognisant of the plight of threatened parasites, coupled at times with potential host co-extinction, feasible criteria have not been developed to specifically assess their threat risk and methods to conserve them have also received limited attention. Methodologies and criteria are presented here to aid the assessment of the conservation status of threatened parasites in a way consistent with the criteria of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Such assessments assist in prioritizing conservation efforts, a crucial task given parasites are integral to the functioning and survival of global ecosystems. Highlights: Animal parasites are ecologically important and highly vulnerable to extinction. Available conservation rubrics are poorly suited for assessing animal parasites. The first assessment framework designed for animal parasites is presented. Widescale assessments of the conservation status of animal parasites can now occur.