Two famous pests, Plasmodium vivax and Phytophthora infestans

Abstract

Scope of Study: Parasites play a large role in shaping the destiny of mankind. One such parasite, Plasmodium vivax, has been and still is responsible for the deaths of thousands of people. This thesis points out the highlights of that life cycle, history of the disease, and gives a brief description of the phylum from which it comes. Another very important parasite, Phytophthora infestans is discussed with special emphasis on its destructiveness in Ireland in 1845-1846. Briefly the fungi are discussed to give a better understanding of this one particular Phycomycete.

Findings and Conclusions: Historians do not give enough credit to the effect that the destructive nature of certain parasites such as Plasmodum vivax and Phytophtore infestans have had on history. Neither do Americans, in general, have a healthy enough respect for the ability of parasites such as these to wreck our whole economy even though they many never reach our soil in epidemic proportions. They have brought death, disability, and deprivation to many of the underdeveloped countries, and in this way stand to weaken our economy due to our dependence on products from these countries.