Malaria, Sea Grapes and Kidney Stones: A Tale of Parasites Lost
Ninja Bat Whispers to Sneak up on Moths
Two interesting posts about evolution this week, highlighting two interactions which drive much of evolution: parasitism and predator-prey. The first article is about a member of the Apicomplexan group. This group contains the human parasite Plasmodium which causes malaria. The particular research highlighted in the post details one particular Apicomplexan named Nephromyces which infects a tiny marine animal called the sea grape. Turns out, the Nephromyces my be protective for the sea grape against kidney stones. So it seems that this parasite and host have formed a mutualistic relationship - this means that they both derive benefits from the interaction. But the story doesn't stop there, as the researchers found a bacteria species living inside the protozoan which may help break down the kidney stones. So there may be two mutalistic relationships here, like some kind of biological Russian doll set.
The second article discusses the biological arms race that often occurs between predator and prey. Predator evolves some technique to hunt its prey...predator evolves a way to evade this hunting technique...predator evolves refined hunting technique...prey evolves refined escape technique...etc,etc. This is evident in many forms, such as camouflage or mimicry, and even seemingly simple adaptations such as fast running speed. In this particular case, moths which are hunted by bats using echolocation have evolved very sensitive ears to pick up the signals and avoid the bats. There is one species of bat, the barbastelle bat, which has evolved a countermeasure to the moth hearing (so a counter-countermeasure, I guess). The barbastelle bat is quiet. Very quiet. Turns out, if we could hear them, bats would be as loud as jackhammers. Little, furry, flying jackhammers that will bite you and give you rabies. I actually really like bats and am looking into enticing some to move into my backyard to help with a mosquito problem. Of course, if they were as loud as jackhammers, i would just keep covering myself in Off whenever I am out there for more than five minutes.
Whenever I hear people talk about how boring biology is, I always think about evolution research, which is constantly showing us that we really have no idea exactly how complex the world around us is.
37 comments:
Oh, those darn Apicomplexans!
I find it peculiar that their cells are like the chambers in a revolver.
Seems like a warning sign...
It's also interesting that humans and sea grapes are the only animals that can make kidney stones. It also looks like sea grapes will never escape the Nephromyces...seeing the sea water will just keep infecting them.
It makes sense, that in time, moths were able to recognize the bats' high pitched squeaks, and relate that sound to their soon coming death...and in turn, the bats adapting and being able to hunt the moths easily once again.
Interesting how the two neurons in the moths' ears react at different times, giving the bat a more time to attack. Unfortunately for the moth, it's second gimpy neuron reacts a fraction of a second too late. The barbastelle's strategy of whispering is probably their best bet. Even though it doesn't detect as far, at least it doesn't scare the food away. We will just have to wait and see if the moths will be able to figure out a way to evade the bats quicker in the future.
Though Barbaselle bats do not possess a more advanced physical advantage over other bats, Barbaselle bats have evolved the technique by which they catch their prey to improve their rate of efficiently. The article does not explain whether the Barbaselle bats previously used the method of loud echolocation, whether they used to eat flies, or the reason for the transition from their old method to their newfound use of “whispering.” I wonder why other bats do not use this method, as it seems possible for different species of bats to apply this same technique: moving closer to the prey, but making softer echoes. Nevertheless, the practice of whispering to surprise the prey is ingenious.
Concerning the article about the sea grapes, I never knew that the relationship between a host and a parasite could be so symbiotic. I wonder if researchers ever tried to detach the parasite from the sea grape to see its effects. Could the sea grape function without the nutrients that the parasite provides? Otherwise, what would be the purpose of the sea grape producing so many kidney stones if it did not expect the parasite’s benefits? Maybe a similar parasite could be used to remedy humans’ discomfort from kidney stones, or at least the nutrients could be of some medicinal benefit.
I found it interesting that the apicomplexan has a set of rings shaped like a revolver that is uses to “shoot” cells with molecules. Like njlamacchia said it seems like a warning sign. Yet it wouldn’t be a warning sign for Nephromyces. It seems strange that perhaps millions of apicomplexans are harmful and dangerous to those it infects, yet one found has a mutualistic relationship with its host. The organism is similar to all other apicomplexans but its role in its host life is vastly different. But perhaps it is not the only one; perhaps there are others that work the same way that are yet to be found. Maybe one day, we can find an apicomplexan that breaks down kidney stones for humans as Nephromyces does for Sea Grapes, but maybe Nephromyces can have the same role it has in Sea Grapes as humans. Maybe Nephromyces would thrive in a mutualistic relationship with humans, but has never been put in an environment near humans. If put in human kidneys, would Nephromyces destroy kidney stones, would it die in the unique environment human kidneys provide, or would it take on a parasitic relationship with its host, as other apicomplexans do with humans?
I was surprised to read that apicomplexans could actually help the host they infiltrate. When I first began reading the article I had the impression that apicomplexans were just like any harmful parasite that ultimately ended up destroying their host cell. The fact that the Apicomplexan's cells are shaped like the barrel of a revolver is astoundingly magnificent. It’s amazing that they can just fire themselves into a host cell and quickly invade it without problems. As I kept reading I was surprised to see how similar the sea grape was to other vertebrates. When the article described the sea grape as an undersea blob that siphoned food from the water, I was completely convinced that it had nothing to do with humans. But the fact that it’s a blob with an apparent spinal cord similar to humans obviously proved me wrong. It’s amazing to see just how unique each creature in the animal kingdom is compared to humans.
The title of the next article immediately drew me in… NINJA BATS!!??? Amazing!! The article was actually very informative. Evolution never ceases to amaze me; it’s interesting to see that the bats have an effective counter offense against their ever changing prey. The barbastelle bat seems like the perfect species of bat to combat the sensitive eared moths. They truly live up to the article’s name as a “stealth killer.” it’s incredible that moths can continue to find protective defenses against the bats even though they are clearly outclassed. The fact that they can possibly jam the sonar of bats with clicks of their own or fool bats by mimicking the sounds of other species leaves one to believe that the long conflict between bats and moths will continue as each side tries to one up the other.
I find the first article quite intriguing in the fact that a parasite switched to being a mutualist. I did not know that evolution contributed to such changes in species interactions, as well. This arouses my curiosity in that after a particular amount of time, many parasites could possibly change their orientation-type, as well. It would be a great benefit to those affected by parasities- apicomplexans for example- such as humans by lessening the disease rates (ex. malaria). Seeing as the sea grapes resemble our human physical makeup, Nephromyces or other of its changing-parasites could probably maintain a mutualistic relationship in us (humans) in the future, as well. It is a possibility.
As for the second article, I believe that the ability of the barbastelles could possibly develop in time for other bats, as well. However, the question of which upperhand is more useful is still existent. I think that the basbastelle's extreme whispering ability is more useful despite its limits in distance (unlike the regular echolocation of bats such as Leisler's bats). Being able to sneak up on the moths rather than "hear" the more distant ones could be more useful in my opinion...especially when the moths could develop countermeasures to deceive the regular bats (unless the bats again learn to counteract these deception attempts).
I wonder if Nephromyces could be used on humans, either the way it is or altered somehow... Would it do the same thing for humans that it does for sea grapes, or is it exclusive? Finding something that could break down kidney stones would definitely be a blessing, and the nutrients might also be useful.
The way the moths evolve is incredible. I never quite understood how they develop new characteristics, even though I know it's a long process. As far as growing ears and then not being able to hear the barbastelle bats anyway, it's like getting a shield to defend yourself from arrows, only to find yourself facing a gun. Evolution will just keep bringing the bats and moths around in circles until neither can evolve anymore. Let's just hope moths don't get too clever and start eating all of our clothes. That would put evolution back a few thousand years.
First off, thanks Dr. H, I am now asking for a Star Wars Russian doll set for Christmas. Sadly, I do not think my mom will actually buy it.
What interested me the most in the first article was the fact that a sea grape is closely related to humans. It is just truly amazing how intricate biology is that it can easily link a sophisticated being, a human, to a ocean dwelling sea grape. Nephromyces seems to be of vital importance to a sea grapes overall health. It seems that without the parasite the sea grape, like humans, would not be able to break down the kidney stones. This raised a question in my head. Would sea grapes experience a large population drop if Nephromyces was removed from its environment?, and do the sea grapes bodily protectors, its equivalent to an immune system, recognize the parasite as a welcome guest instead of a harmful intruder like most other organisms protectors would? Maybe humans would recognize it as a welcome guest too.
The barbastelle bat has been able to outsmart the mosquitoes for the time being, but evolution is just going to tip the scale in the mosquitoes' favor after awhile. Neither species can jump ahead of the process of evolution. The bat cannot know how the insect will adapt next, all it can do is wait for the change and wait for evolution to catch on. Its simply an amazing, never-ending, and quite mysterious system. With each change the species is enhanced. I hope humans have the time to keep enhancing too.
I recently watched the program Monsters Inside Me, and it was explaining how some parasites actually do help their host. I think it was a tape worm that has reports of killing allergies. It stopped the immune system from seeing the pollen and allergens as a threat which prevented the inflammation. I think its neat how we tend to hate things because they hurt us without actually noticing what they can do for us. Not all parasites help, and all do take from their host, but maybe sometimes it is worth it to give a little to gain an immunity for instance.
As for the bats and moths while i was reading I was wondering if they can only locate things from that small distance. Sure they can whisper and sneak up on prey, but do they sacrifice some 'vision'? I think the next step would be for bats to be able to switch between long distance echolocation and their whispering stealthy echolocation.
I find it truly amazing on how bats and moths both evolved and acquired new characteristics in order to survive. I did not think there would be such complex measures in the bat's echolocation nor did i think moths had ears to detect them. I think that the A1 and A2 reaction system is highly remarkable as well. It's almost like a spidey-sense in spiderman. Of course there would be set backs. it is unfortunate that the bat can only sense up to 5 metres.
Things like parasitic forms and animals forming mutual bonds in the wilderness is one of the cooler parts of nature, in my opinion. It's like the parasite gets a nice place to stay while the host just has to be alive and it gets a nice little bonus on top of it (thought I'm sure protection from kidney stones isn't exactly that spectacular of an ability to be gained from a parasite).
Thankfully there are no human adaptations to this yet, at least as far as we know. The idea of having a parasite live inside of me so I get the ability to grow hair faster isn't exactly what I would like. Maybe if it would allow me to run faster or jump higher, then we could negotiate.
So, anyway, ninja bats. They randomly sneak into my post just like they do on those moths. The evolutionary changes in these animals that are forced by their predators/prey actually are like an arms race. That's probably the best way to describe it, as a matter of fact. Though I'm personally not a fan of bats or moths myself, I suppose a few less moths and (a lot less) mosquitoes are things that humans can find useful.
Anything operating at the sound level of a jackhammer is either annoying/terrifying, so I'm glad our ears don't pick it up. Articles like this really do show us how little we do know about the world we've been living on for thousands of years now, and we're just starting to put together the first few pieces of what is likely a 100,000 piece puzzle of a skyline or something where all the pieces are very similar, but just different enough that it'll take you 20 minutes to place the first one.
Anyway, good luck with your Bat House, Dr. H. Though, I do believe bats prefer to use caves as their headquarters.
These are the times when I wish I were a sea grape...they have all the luck. The article pertaining to the Apicomplexans was a huge eye-opener for various reasons; these lethal, single-celled protozoans make the swine flu epidemic look like the common cold (even if this particular influenza was over-hyped by the media). Is it a coincidence that the word "complex" lies in the middle of "Apicomplexans"? Because these protozoans are so intricate in the sense that they cause fatality for almost all of the animal kingdom, yet they are also a peacemaker for one tiny creature. It's funny how throughout the article my attitude toward these organisms changed from "frightened and alarmed" to a calmer feeling as the article shifted from deadly parasites to friendly mutualists, even if they are only beneficial to one host. It's almost as if I were watching a movie about a super villain and in the end realizing that there is some good in him/her after all.
The real eye-opener, however, was that overall, evolution is one of the many intriguing topics in studying biology. From reading about the electric charges mormyrids produce to find prey, to realizing that ninja bats could have helped me out with the annoying moths I had in my backyard this summer, the discoveries I've learned about have been absolutely extraordinary...and sometimes very freaky.
I always thought of parasites as single-celled protozoans, including Apicomplexans like Plasmodiums, which infect all organisms and cause diseases such as Texas Cattle Fever, toxoplasmosis, and malaria. However, this is not the case as studies conducted by scientist Mary Beth Saffo have shown that a specific Apicomplexan called Nephromyces have proven to be beneficial parasites in lives of numerous marine animals, especially the sea grapes. When Nephromyces infect every new generation of sea grapes, they funnel their way into the renal sacs and establish symbiotic relationships with their hosts. While the sea grapes provide Nephromyces with shelter, the parasite in turn produces nutritious compounds from the sea grapes’ stones. Like Theresa Lin, I, too, wonder if scientist can successfully utilize the Nephromyces’ natural ability to decompose kidney stones for the betterment of mankind. If such a breakthrough is possible, just imagine how much pain and suffering it will prevent in the world.
Using the ability known as Echolocation, numerous bats, like the Barbastelle bats and the Leisler’s bats, are able to hunt night-flying insects such as moths. However, throughout the years, moths have developed ears and evolved their hearing senses, allowing them evade more bats easily. As a result, the diets of the Barbastelle bats and the Leisler’s bats have changed drastically. Studies conducted by Holger Goerlitz, Matt Zeale and Gareth Jon show that moths consist of 90% of the Barbastelle bats’ meals, as opposed to 10% of the Leisler’s bats’ diets. This distinct difference between the two types of bats is the result of the special, evolved whispering abilities of the Barbastelle bats. Even though evolution has helped moth avoid a wide variety of bat predators, it has also help the weak Barbastelle bats, who only have short detective range, to find adequately the nutrition they deserve. Evolution, as the article alludes, is truly a remarkable natural phenomenon.
The relationship between sea grapes and apicomplexians is really interesting. I think it is remarkable that these potentially harmful parasites eat kidney stones. I wonder if it is possible for scientists to somehow create a medicine that mimics the kidney stone dissolving action of Nephromyces for humans. Since they are quite dangerous and only perform these actions in the renal sacs of sea grapes, researchers cannot implant them into humans. A synthetic version could ease the pain and discomfort of kidney stones and improve health and quality of life in many people who develop them on a regular basis.It is only logical that moths would adapt to attempt to protect themselves from predator bats, and that the bats would adapt to continue to capture their prey. Unfortunately for the moths, if they overcompensate and become hyper sensitive to the sounds around them, they might suffer in the long run despite their changes and die off. I think evolution is an interesting topic, watching animals adapt to prolong their lives and assure the species survival is remarkable.
When I was reading how a parasite like the apicomplexan helped the host the sea grape by stopping kidney stones really surprised me. Usually all parasites cause harm to the host over time while deriving what benefits the parasite needs from the host. From what this article said their relationship helps benefit both species without causing any trouble. This relationship between host and parasite reminds me in Spiderman three when the symbiote Venom bonds with Spiderman which makes him stronger, faster, and even more aggressive. The fact is that there are possibilities that parasites and hosts can coexist peacefully and that these parasites can benefit the host. Since the sea grape is similar to vertebrates such as human beings it can also show the possibility that even humans can have this relationship.
The article about how the barbastlle bat and its prey the moth have developed counter measures toward each other was also interesting. It shows that species are willing to adapt if there are changes in their environments. What was also interesting is how other species evolved to throw of the echolocation of bats which prevents them from finding prey. This goes to show that the relationship between predator and prey help benefit both species in order to survive and develop physical attributes that make it easier for both species to live and find food.
When I started to read this article, I couldn't help but think that I was going to read about all the harmful causes and effects of Apicomplexans, but as I read on, I was surprised to read that a peacemaker was discovered among these perilous protozoans. It was intriguing to read that their cells are shaped like teardrops and that at the pointed end, they have a ring of tubes like the chambers on a revolver. I would have never imagined something like this. I thought of archery and hitting the target when the author mentioned that an apicomplexan points its chambers at its prospective host and fires a set of molecules. It's amazing how different organisms take drastic measures to survive and ultimately get what they need. It’s almost like survival of the fittest. I was shocked to read that a sea grape and humans are closely related. How could that be possible? But it is; in the science world with new observations and experiments come new discoveries, so anything is possible. There are obviously no outward similarities, but finding out that they too have a notochord was quite intriguing. I was actually wondering the same thing as rmcnellis2. Could Nephromyces be used on humans and would it bring the same results? It would be amazing if it did and this would be a major breakthrough in the medical field and as rmcnellis2 said, a blessing. When I read, "But it's hard to think of another case in which a species has turned its back on such a huge legacy of death and disease," I couldn't help but agree with this statement. It's hard for someone or something to change when it has become accustomed to something else. But in this case, this is not so, because Nephromyces may have always been beneficial to begin with and this is hard to believe knowing that it's an apicomplexan. Always expect the unexpected when it comes to science because it throws new surprises at you all the time.
I find the concept of countermeasures intriguing. Every animal has to find a way to escape their enemy, but I would have never thought that moths come up with different strategies that can cause their attacker to fumble their approach. It is amazing how both bats and moths will do anything to survive. This idea is quite clever as is evolution itself. I find it interesting that a barbastelle bat's echolocation calls are 10 to 100 times quieter than those of other moth-hunting bats. They will do anything to get what they want. When I want to scare my brother when he is downstairs in the basement, I quietly sneak down the stairs; if I were to stomp down the stairs, scaring him would be pointless seeing that he would already know that I was there. In the same way, barbastelle bats stealthily approach their prey in order to get a good meal. When I read of moths having two neurons that pick up bat echolocation and trigger different reactions, I thought of how we as humans react to different things. If someone snaps their fingers in your face, you flinch, and similarly, moths have different reactions. Evolution is rather fascinating to me and I would love to learn more about it.
The first article surprised me a little. Before reading the article i thought that parasites are very helpful and destroy there host cell. After reading the article i was surprised to learn that apicomplexans could actually help the host infiltrate. I was also intrested to learn like Sarah that apicomplexan has a set of rings shaped like a revolver that is uses to target cells with molecules.
I really only liked the first article the most this week but in terms of the second article I liked the title.
The evolution of bats and moths is one of those that work together, like a symbiotic relationship. It’s cool how the Barbastelle bats have evolved in order to take advantage of the evolution of moths. ‘Ninja bats’ is a nice nickname for these sneaky animals. Using their whispering, the bats can sense the moths’ position. But the consequence of not ‘seeing’ far distances seems like a costly risk. Even if it holds a monopoly over that food source, the bat’s new ability could weaken its awareness of its surroundings. If a Barbastelle bat only concentrates on a moth, it cannot sense another animal’s presence quickly and could be caught in some undesirable situations. Which is more important: food or safety? Also, while the bats’ ‘whispering’ may be advantageous, that does not mean that the moths will yield to them. As stated in the article, evolution offers moths a large ‘arsenal’ of abilities to obtain. Moths can use the bats’ weakness, their dependence on hearing, yet again by clicking unfavorable sounds. It seems that moths still have a fighting chance in the race to survival.
I find the apicomplexans' method of entering another cell to be quite peculiar. Their manner of firing molecules at the cell's surface to create a point of entry made me think of pirates blowing a hole in a ship's hull to gain access. To think this same process has been used by the organisms for millions of years is extraordinary.
The concept of symbiotic relationships is not new by any means; such occurrences are found in nature quite frequently, like how some savannah animals allow birds to roost on their hides in return for them eating harmful parasites. However, considering how Nephromyces has been identified as a member of the normally parasitic apicomplexan family, the revelation that it actually benefits its host is particularly noteworthy for such a reason. It makes me wonder what first initiated Nephromyces to become a beneficial parasite, and whether other apicomplexans will do the same somewhere down the evolutionary line.
While I am well aware of how important they are to various ecosystems, eating pests and the like, bats have always been one of my least favorite animals just because I find them very eerie. Yet, there is no doubt they are some of the most sophisticated hunters on the planet through their use of echolocation. The case of the barbastelle bat is very interesting, as its call is 10 to 100 times quieter than other species. This allows it to close in on prey, such as eared moths, other bats are unable to catch because of their loud calls. Although the article points out the sophistication of the barbastelle bat's hunting method is not overly effective to illicit an evolutionary response from the moths anytime soon, I can't help but think what the next step would be. Perhaps, one day, there will be bats whose radar is as acute as a submarine's, but that is probably still a few million years off.
It’s amazing how mow many topics covered in this blog this summer have a positive side and a negative side. The fact that a type of apicomplexan has turned from a parasite feeding off of a host to one forming a mutualistic relationship repeats some of the evolution patterns that have happened throughout history, as we understand them. However, it is very interesting that this apicomplexan, the Nephromycs, contains bacteria in it that also help to break down the kidney stones in the Sea Grapes, because their cell organization is so different. Like many others have mentioned, it will be interesting to see if scientists can find a way to isolate the benefits of apicomplexans only. However, as a little research shows, it is difficult because the apicomplexans are eukaryotes, due to the fact that they are protists. Thus, it is difficult to develop anything that will be able to differentiate between the human cells and the apicomplexans themselves. Another interesting part of the article was how it was mentioned that the antixomplexans take a different shape when entering the bloodstream. Although this would make sense when you think about it, it never occurred to me that this may be the reality of things like protists get around.
The case with the bat-moth evolutional competition seems to happen among many other species of life over time. This does really show how evolution can be such a never ending process. As I was reading through the article, I got to the point where it was mentioned that the barbastelle bat had the upper hand in preying on moths, while the moth could successfully avoid the other types of bats. I wondered what would happen to the other bats without the ability to eat moths, until I kept reading. The fact that the Leisler’s bat eats flies rather than moths is another example of adaption and evolution. The A1 and A2 neurons of the moth are very interesting. I never would have thought that it takes one neuron to trigger another neuron for the moth to escape. That makes it even harder, as the article mentions. It was also interesting to me that the scientist leading these studies suggested that the quite calls of the barbastelle bat would not cause an evolution from the moths. If the barbastelle bats begin to successfully hunt moths at a higher level, will the moths eventually be forced to develop a counter measurement, besides hearing, or has the success rate of the barbastelle bats been maximized already?
When I looked at the link to the bat house, I thought it was a joke. I’m pretty surprised that people would actually have bats purposely come to their backyards to rid themselves of mosquitoes, but then again, if I had that problem, I’m sure I might try it as well.
It is strange how such different creatures can be considered "similar." The sea grapes are the only other animal (other than humans) who can produce kidney stones. However, we do not have an awesome evil-turned-good protozoa that can help break down kidney stones. However, it is enlightening to know that the scientists didn't realize that Nephromyces weren't actually some simple helpful fungus, but rather a complex type of protozoa with a bad history. As we all established the Nephromyces helps the sea grapes by breaking down kidney stones, but really Nephromyces harbors bacteria that breaks down the kidney stones. Like Mr. Himmelheber said, it's kinda of like a bunch of Russian nesting dolls. Either way, whoever breaks down the stones, whether it be the bacteria or the Nephromyces, the sea grapes have a pretty sweet deal. I wonder if by studying this bacteria, we can create a way to break down kidney stones in humans.
I have always found bats to be creepy and scary. I personally did not like bats. Then I read this article, and now I can appreciate the abilities they have gained through evolution. (Though I still do not like bats.) Evolutionary battles between predator and prey are always worth watching because you never know what change a species will make next. The thing that popped out at me most though in the article was the fact that the Barbastelle bats almost exclusively feed on moths. This means that if the moths were to develop some defensive method against the Barbastelle, the bat might starve. But of course, more probably than starve, the Barbastelle will have a serious life adjustment. Maybe they will start hunting flies like the Liesler's bat. You never know. Like the article said, "Evolution, is after all cleverer than you."
P.S. My favorite Doll set was of The Beatles in their Sgt. Pepper outfits. Also, I read the article on how to make a bat house. I found quite surprising that bats prefer such tight and cramped conditions. I guess they are a simple lot. Just kidding. It makes sense. I understand that keeping babies warm is more of a priority than space.
Out of the two articles I definitely enjoyed reading the Ninja Bats article more (though I shuddered when I saw the images of the bats). I would never have guessed that in order to advance in their hunting techniques, the barbastelle bats "whisper" to locate and hunt their prey. But even though the barbastelle bats have some advantages, they also many great disadvantages. Like Santhoshi K. said, the bat could grow unaware of another animal's presence which could lead to further problems. And as stated in the article, the barbastelle bats have a range to hunt of only about 5 meters while the Leisler's bat (which has a louder echo) can spot mothsup to 15 meters. I feel that this article truly shows how amazing the process of evolution is. While the barbastelle bat has the upperhand in hunting moths, the moths have "a whole arsenal" of countermeasures to use.
While reading the article about the Apicomplexans, it struck me that the apicomplexans, always known to be the source of death and disease in the animal kingdom, actually turned out to benefit the sea grapes. I'm sure with further research in the field, scientists will be able to find more mutualist relationships involving parasites. Finding more parasites turned mutualist would be a step forward in finding cures to human illnesses caused by the parasites.
Once again, like others before me have said, we see the awesome power of symbiotic relationships in nature. Even those apicomplexans need those Sea Grapes for survival and vice versa. It is amazing to think that such relationships have the ability to evolve over time. How do two organisms find one another? How do they realize that they both can mutually live together and help one another? These are the questions that I hope to further understand during the course of the year.
As for the bats, I am once again thoroughly intrigued by the process of evolution. It is mind blowing to think that these counteracting strikes of evolution occur between the bat and the moth, between predator and prey. Perhaps soon, these moths will even develop their hearing to higher senses or develop faster movement. Perhaps, the community of moths will begin to change to adapt to the skills of the formidable predator. I know that if I hear a hunter behind me whispering "Hello, Clarice", I'm going to find some way to beat him out.
Now, bat houses were not at the top of my list for bug problems. I don't know, "Off" bug spray and those horrifying electric lanterns have worked fine for me. Yet, the concept of bringing a bat as a killer of bugs in your backyard is quite amazing. I cannot think of anyone who wouldn't want to see such a spectacle. Except for Bruce Wayne, of course. I've heard he's got something against bats.
"Ninja Bat" - When I hear "arms race" I think of weapons and the cold war. I do not think of animals at all. The bat's ability of echolocation is similar to the fish giving off electrical impulses to find each other. I get how it's an arms race... as one evolves, the other also evolves to outdo the the first. In the end, one may have an upper hand, but nobody wins. It's interesting how the scientists used electrodes and microphones to capture the interactions between the moth and the bat. I never thought bats as loud creatures, but I guess that's because humans can not here them. I guess every thing in this world is balanced... Ying Yang. The barbastelle can use its quiet call to capture moths, but has to be at a near distance. On the other hand, the Leisler bats can't capture moths easily, but can find them at long distances. Species jamming the sonars of the bats reminds me of computers and radios and how the signals can get messed up.
"Malaria" - It was unique the way the article described how the apicomplexan. How it is like a gum with chamber and points and fires a set of molecules to invade and injure. I find it fascinating how a "blob creature" is closely related to humans. I guess Nephromyces could be useful to humans if we ever got kidney stones. Every species seems to have harmful creatures and some that actually do good.
The first article was really interesting. I didn't really know what a Apicomplexan was but I find it amazing that there are so many different types of them. I wonder why they call the peacemaker a sea grape because it looks nothing like a grape. I think it looks very interesting because it has so many weird textures.
The second article reminds me of one of my favorite childhood story, "Stellaluna". Anyway, I never really liked bats, but the only thing I did like was that they ate mosquitoes. I don't find it amazing that the bats are changing and evolving ways to hunt prey because evolution is so common.
I really like learning about evolution because it shows how complex creatures are. This was a very interesting article for the last week. See you block 3, Dr. H.
The article about the sea grapes really caught my attention. I have never heard about Apicomplexans and their deadly traits. Its hosts on the sea grape, yet the help destroy kidney stone. I agree with Sammy on hoping that scientist can find all the benefits of this singled celled protozoans and clear all the bad habits which is nearly an impossible thing to do.
The article about the bats was very surprising to me. Their way of echolocation was interesting due to the fact that they use this to hunt. Usually when someone or something is trying to hunt down their prey they make no sound at all. The fact that evolution had helped these bats gain more moths to eat can be helpful to them for a while until evolution helps the moths out and help them to hear the bats coming before it's to late
This article was the first time I had heard of such parasites, and like Theresa, I was surprised at their ability to have a symbiotic relationship with their host. I know in the article, it was said that “Nephromyces only live inside sea grapes,” but it would be interesting to see if scientists could modify this apicomplexan to use it for humans. The use of this apicomplexan could provide us with a natural treatment for human kidney stones, for which there are currently only external cures. The relationship between the sea grape and the Nephromyces is ironic considering how “vicious” and deadly other known apicomplexans have been. On another note, I wonder why sea grapes and humans are the only animals that experience kidney stones. Perhaps other animals have their own undiscovered apicomplexans or other parasites that assist rather than destroy. This is an example of the balance of life found in the natural world and how little we truly understand about the intricate and complex planet around us. Overall, it was a very interesting and informative article.
I have to say that barbastelle bats, in their nocturnal hunting for insects, remind me of modern aviation weapon technology. Like aviation companies, barbastelle bats are constantly trying to outdo their opponents by developing better predatory abilities, or advanced reconnaissance technology. Despite my aversion to bats, I find these “ninja-like” predators fascinating in their methods of hunting and evolution. They hunt using the quietest call, allowing them access to difficult insects to prey on, sensitively eared moths. The pattern of evolution caused by one critter reacting to another’s adaptation is mind boggling. Where does the line end? The process of evolution is seemingly endless and always mesmerizing.
The article “Malaria, Sea Grapes, and Kidney Stones: A Tale of Parasites Lost” raises up a few questions because of the 6,000 known apicomplexans one apicomplexan called Nephromyces differs greatly from the others. The apicomplexans are usually grouped in one category described as harmful parasites cause ravaging damage to its various hosts. So how does a apicomplexan like Plasmodium which causes malaria, relate so closely to Nehpromyces? Nehpromyces,though it is a “parasite”, seems to be having a mutual relationship with its host known as sea grapes. It is interesting that sea grapes are closely related to humans and are the only other known animal that can produce kidney stones because that could mean that maybe another apicomplexan similar to Nehpromyces could be able to provide a beneficial effect on human kidney stones.
In the second article, “Ninja bat whispers to sneak up on moths”, evolution plays a major role in the predator and prey relationship of barbastelle bats and moths. Because of coevolution, moths have been able to develop more sensitive ears to counteract the bat’s echolocation ability, and now barbastelle bats “whisper” to enable them to hunt moths with much more ease than other bats who can not “whisper”. Furthermore, since the bats’ “whisper” causes barbastelle bats to have hunt at a closer range, they only hunt slightly more efficiently than their counterparts.
Reading these two evolution articles made me realize how interesting biology can be. In my opinion, learning about the evolution of other animals and their interactions with each other is more exciting than learning about the evolution of homo sapiens.
Learning that bats were one of the noisiest creatures surprised me a bit, but it made sense since the frequency of their calls are too high for us to hear. To evade the bats, some moths use counter-clicks of their own. I found that interesting because it's really similar to military tactics. Usually, the navy ship would want to stay covert, but having a couple buoys around that emit counter-sonar would be useful for temporarily misleading imminent threats.
Scientists could definitely harness the power of these small yet helpful parasites and engineer the parasites to be less harmful and more beneficial. In biotech this past year, we made glow in the dark bacteria so engineering organisms is possible.
Overall, it's cool to see how intertwined all life on earth is. from bats and moths, to minuscule parasites and hosts.
When i began reading the first article i was immediately interested. I was shocked to hear that there were about 1.2 to 10 million apicomplexan waiting to be identified. I found it cool the way they are shaped, like tear drops with pointed ends and rig of tubes, I would have never imagined them to be like that. I was intrigued to learn about this new species.
Since bats use echolocation in order to hunt and catch their preys during the night, I found it really interesting how moths have developed ears that allow them to hear the calls of bats and take action. I wouldn't have thought that moths would be able to evolve theirs ears to that sound. I found the experiment that they did very informative. I was very shocked at the fact that 90 percent of what barbastelles eat are moths with ears. Overall I thought this article entertaining.
I feel like the first article was a little boring because even though is showed the connection between two creatures and how they can help each other, there was no action going on like the second article. The first article shows how a parasite that is harmful for us humans are actually beneficial to other organisms. The parasites in the article are able to enjoy the food that the sea grapes give them.The food are actually kidney stones that the sea grapes don't need. This show how both organisms are helpful to each other.
The second article is better because it show the genetic arms race that two species have formed. The bats eat the moths when they go out to hunt with echolocation at night. To prevent the bats form catching them moths have formed ears that allow them to sense if a bat is close. This show the change that moths have made. To counteract this, a species of bats have made their echolocation quieter so then can attack stealthily. Both animals have really changed to better their chances of survival.
The first article left me pretty surprised. It is quite ironic that the Apicomplexan group, widely known to contain human parasites (like Plasmodium) that cause diseases like malaria, is the same group that contains Nephromyces, which is thought to protect sea grapes from kidney stones. I guess it really all depends on the relationship between a parasite and its host. Yet some things still leave me confused. If sea grapes are so similar to human beings, and these parasites are detrimental to our health, how do they continue helping the sea grapes avoid certain dangers? Often, science can really be a mystery...
For some reason, my computer is not loading the link for the second article, but just by reading other people's comments and also skimming the little intro that Dr.H put up, I think I can somewhat form my own conclusion as to what the article entails...
When you sit down and really think about it, it is actually interesting to beak down and study the relationship between predator and prey. Animals rely on food for survival. Therefore, many predators will take days perfecting their hunting tactics if it meant catching that one meal they have been eying on for quite some time. So, of course it makes sense that as the predators are sharpening their skills, the preys are being careful as well! However, it's not that simple when your predator is a barbastelle bat, which uses its whispers to hunt for its prey: moths. If you think about it, when it comes to all this hunting, us humans have it pretty darn easy! Creatures such as bats, lions, bears, etc. must perfect the skills they are born with and really fight to get their food. All we have to do is make the money and buy it!
Is it weird that a lot of your posts make me think about Call of duty? I guess i just play it too much. The Revolver like chambers on the cells of the Apicomplexans should almost be taken as a warning, no? Those are some nasty organisms. When i first heard sea grape i thought of a cute green colored plant chilling on the ocean floor, but i guess i was wrong. That thing kicks butt! It's so cool to think that an invertebrate with such simple makeup can have Renal sacs similar to kidneys.
Funny story about the little russian doll link. My mom used to have one of those in her room and one day when she wasn't home ( keep in mind i was very young) i decided to play with it. She came home and saw that i was chewing on it (?) and she started screaming at me and took me to the doctor. Apparently the doll was very old and it was painted with highly toxic lead paint... ahhaha oh.
I was fine, don't worry.
Its really interesting that bats use echolocation in order to find their prey. Its even cooler that some moths evolved to the point where they could hear the bats echo and get out of the area quickly. Honestly, evolution in all its entirety is such an intriguing topic.
The sea grapes article really sparked my attention. I have never heard anything about Apicomplexans yet there are so many different kinds and they contain deadly traits. It’s mainly hosts on the sea grape, yet they can help destroy kidney stone! I found it weird that they can relate such a blob to a human!
The article about the bats was very surprising to me. Their way of echolocation was interesting due to the fact that they use this to hunt. Commonly when something is trying to hunt down their prey they make no sound at all. The fact that evolution had helped these bats gain more moths to eat can be helpful to them. I don't find it that shocking that the bats are changing and evolving ways to hunt prey because evolution is so common and known now a day. I really enjoy learning about evolution because it shows how unique creatures can get by adapting to their environment!
First off, i couldn't believe that single-celled organisms could cause so much death and disease! I find it amazing that a single cell could actually cause the death of an entire animal, which is a working system of trillions of cells. however, the most intriguing facet of the research presented in the article was the fact that this particular species of apicomplexans, in direct contrast with the other species, offers a beneficial result to its host instead of death or disease. The simple fact that parasitism could actually be beneficial surprised me; the word parasite, to me at least, has such a negative connotation. This interaction between three members of the animal kingdom (bacterium, apicomplexan, and sea grape) all providing services to eachother that help all 3 survive, reminded me of a similar interaction in which a pilot fish will eat fish lice and miniscule crabs who live on the sharks body. in return, the benefit the pilot fish recieves from the shark is safety, the shark will not eat them. to me, This interaction of multiple life forms aiding eachother, is a beautiful thing.
On a second note, the "ninja" bat, more formally known as the barbastelle bat, is an incredible creature. scientists believe that their whisper echoing gives them the upper hand in their predator-prey relationship with moths, even the moths who have developed super sensitive ears. Even though these moths had developed a counter measure to the bats echoes, this species of bat had developed a counter-counter measure! Biology can be so interesting. Thanks Dr. H, great articles. I look forward to a good school year in biology class.
It's amazing how something so miniscule could kill something a billion times larger than itself. Even teardrop shape and ring of tubes shaped like chambers on a revolver seem frightening and deathly.Apicomplexans were viewed as dangerous and harmful parasites until the most recent discovery proved this statement wrong. This newly discovered peacemaker actually helps the sea grape, an animal similar to us humans. It's surprising that Nephromyces actually helps prevent kidney stones, a problem that humans develop quite often. With the sea grape as the host, providing a protective place for Nephromyces to survive, and Nephromyces produces nutritious compounds from the stones and even releases bacteria to break down the stones. This is a Win-Win relationship for both sides. However, I agree with Shaena. It's surprising that no matter how similar we are to the sea grapes, we do not carry this helpful parasite to prevent kidney stones. Hopefully, scientists will discover a parasite similar to Nephromyces that can benefit humans in the remaining 1.2 to 10 million unknown species.
Wow, ninja bats really exist in this world! Well, actually they don't. However, this nickname really describes the sneaky nature of the Barbastelle bats. Whenever I leave the door open at night for only five minutes or less, I'll discover 10 moths had flown into my house. It's impossible to catch them while they're flying around! But these barbastelle bats can actually catch these moths with their echolocation. This article really highlights on the will to survive in the world. Because bats had chose moths as their prey for millions of years, moths had decided to defend themselves by developing ears which could help them hide and escape from their predators! But now, the bats have once again fought back and evolved into something even more powerful than before. Predators and preys are constantly changing themselves just to keep up with evolution. I wonder if humans were to live like bats, lions, and other creatures, how would we change and what skills would we develop to adapt to our surroundings?
When I hear the word parasite, I think of tape worms and other organisms that dwell within hosts, feeding off of the life of other organsims. It is interesting that the parasite within the Sea Grape can provide so much in return, compared to other parasites. The fact that the Seas Grape produced Kidney stones greatly surprised me. When I first read it, my thoughts were on how they are destroyed. When I read that the parasite seemed to contribute to the destruction of these stones, I was intrigued. I had no idea that parasites were able to help their hosts in such a positive manner.
I found the ninja bat article quite interesting due to the fact at how quickly the creatures in our environment have to adapt to stay alive. The barstalle bats first had the advantage of their high pitched calls to find prey, but their sounds gave away their positions and the prey reacted. With the whispering call being just as effective as the original high pitched call, the have an unfair advantage on the prey, giving them only around 1.8 meters of leeway. The fight for survival has become devastatingly complicated with all the new ways animals have of attracting prey.
The sea grapes seemed very strange to me because in the beginning of the article, they were assumed to be terrible for the host body after I read that apicomplexans can harm people and animals. I never thought that something deep in the ocean and a parasite could help us. After I found out that they were very similar to veterbrates, I was shocked. Recently, my aunt suffered from a kidney stone which she explained came from drinking certain fruit juice that had seeds not removed from it. If only we had known about the sea grapes earlier, we could remove them via a lesser painful process. Scientists continue to impress me with their discoveries
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