Proximity to parasites reduces host fitness independent of infection in a Drosophila-Macrocheles system

We assayed the longevity and reproductive output of Drosophila nigrospiracula exposed or not exposed to ectoparasitic Macrocheles subbadius accross a mesh barrier. As such we measured the non-consumptive effects (extending the ecology of fear to host-parasite systems) of an ectoparasite on host fecundity and survival. We found that exposure to mites, without infection, caused flies to live shorter lives and produce fewer offspring.