Kleptoparasitism

Kleptoparasitism is a form of parasitism where an organism, known as the kleptoparasite, steals food or other resources gathered by another organism, the host. This behavior is observed in various animal species, including birds, insects, and mammals.

Etymology

The term "kleptoparasitism" is derived from the Greek words "kleptein" (to steal) and "parasitos" (parasite). It was first used in the scientific literature in the 20th century to describe the stealing behavior observed in certain animal species.

Types of Kleptoparasitism

Kleptoparasitism can be categorized into two main types: intraspecific and interspecific.

• Intraspecific kleptoparasitism occurs when the kleptoparasite and the host belong to the same species. This is commonly observed in bird species such as gulls and frigatebirds.
• Interspecific kleptoparasitism involves kleptoparasites and hosts from different species. An example of this is the relationship between the African honey bee and the Cape honey bee.

Examples in Nature

Kleptoparasitism is widespread in nature and can be observed in various animal groups.

• Birds: Many bird species, such as frigatebirds, gulls, and skuas, are known to engage in kleptoparasitism. They steal food from other birds either in the air or on the ground.
• Insects: Some insects, like certain species of ants and bees, steal food or resources from other insect colonies.
• Mammals: Among mammals, kleptoparasitism is observed in species like hyenas, which often steal kills from other predators such as lions.

Ecological Impact

Kleptoparasitism can have significant impacts on ecological dynamics. It can influence the distribution and behavior of species, affect food web dynamics, and potentially drive evolutionary changes.

See Also

• Brood parasitism
• Social parasitism
• Parasitism