HUNT LAB

Hairworms or nematomorphs are an entirely parasitic invertebrate phylum belonging to the Ecdysozoa. These obligate parasites complete their life cycle by manipulating the behaviour of their arthropod hosts so that they enter water. The nematomorph emerges in the water and finds a mate. Although this behaviour is readily observed, the underlying mechanism used by the parasite is largely unknown, with hypotheses including attraction to polarised light, erratic behaviour and dehydration-driven behaviour. 

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We are interested understanding the (i) molecular basis of host manipulation by nematomorphs, and (ii) the distribution and diversity of nematomorphs in the UK.