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Cell Press, Trends in Parasitology, 9(24), p. 386-391, 2008

DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2008.05.009

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Schistosome monogamy: who, how, and why?

Journal article published in 2008 by S. Beltran, J. Boissier ORCID
Distributing this paper is prohibited by the publisher
Distributing this paper is prohibited by the publisher

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Abstract

Schistosomes represent a unique animal model for comparative analyses of monogamy. Indeed, schistosomes are classified at the lowest taxonomical level of monogamous species and lack complex social interactions, which could alter our understanding of their unusual mating system. Elements discussed here include the fact that monogamy in schistosomes could be an ancestral state between hermaphroditism and polygyny or polygynandry and the occurrence of mate changes. In addition, hypotheses are proposed to explain monogamy in schistosomes (e.g. female dispersion, the need for paternal care, oviposition site limitation or aggressiveness, and mate guarding). We also propose future experimental and analytical approaches to improve our understanding of the schistosomes' mating system.