Superparasitism

Definition

The phenomenon where multiple individuals of the same parasitoid species attack a single host, often exceeding the host's capacity for supporting the successful development of all parasitoid larvae.

Etymology

From Latin 'super-' meaning 'above, beyond,' and 'parasitism' from Greek 'parasitos' meaning 'one who eats at the table of another.'

Example

Superparasitism can lead to the death of some or all of the developing parasitoids due to competition for resources within the host.

Related Terms

• Parasitoid
• Host

Usage Notes

Superparasitism can result in reduced efficiency of parasitoid biological control agents due to intra-species competition.