Biodiversity inhibits parasites: Broad evidence for the dilution effect

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  • David J. Civitello
    Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620
  • Jeremy Cohen
    Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620
  • Hiba Fatima
    Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620
  • Neal T. Halstead
    Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620
  • Josue Liriano
    Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620
  • Taegan A. McMahon
    Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620
  • C. Nicole Ortega
    Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620
  • Erin Louise Sauer
    Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620
  • Tanya Sehgal
    Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620
  • Suzanne Young
    Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620
  • Jason R. Rohr
    Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620

Description

<jats:title>Significance</jats:title> <jats:p>The dilution effect hypothesis suggests that diverse ecological communities limit disease spread via several mechanisms. Therefore, biodiversity losses could worsen epidemics that harm humans and wildlife. However, there is contentious debate over whether the hypothesis applies broadly, especially for parasites that infect humans. We address this fundamental question with a formal meta-analysis of >200 assessments relating biodiversity to disease in >60 host–parasite systems. We find overwhelming evidence of dilution, which is independent of host density, study design, and type and specialization of parasites. A second analysis identified similar effects of diversity in plant–herbivore systems. Thus, biodiversity generally decreases parasitism and herbivory. Consequently, human-induced declines in biodiversity could increase human and wildlife diseases and decrease crop and forest production.</jats:p>

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