About us
The IUCN SSC Parasite Specialist Group is a network of volunteer scientists and practitioners who are working together to assess and conserve the world’s fascinating, unique, and important parasite species. Our group focuses specifically on metazoan parasites that infect vertebrate hosts, including parasitic worms (Cestoda; Trematoda; Acanthocephala; Nematoda; Hirudinea), parasitic insects (Phthiraptera; Siphonaptera; Hippoboscoidea; Oestridae; Polyctenidae; Cimicidae), and parasitic arachnids (Ixodida; Acariformes).
Parasite species need conservation support because despite how diverse, common, and important they are in ecosystems, few have ever been assessed for the IUCN Red List or protected by conservation actions.
Goal One
Assess parasite species for the IUCN Red List.
Goal Two
Develop conservation plans for threatened parasite species.
Goal Three
Spread the word about parasite conservation by increasing our professional network and connecting with the general public.