Effect of Heterogeneity on Epidemic Invasion
Author Information
Author(s): Neri Franco M., Bates Anne, Füchtbauer Winnie S., Pérez-Reche Francisco J., Taraskin Sergei N., Otten Wilfred, Bailey Douglas J., Gilligan Christopher A.
Primary Institution: Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge
Hypothesis
The probability of epidemic invasion decreases when host heterogeneity is increased.
Conclusion
The study found a significant negative correlation between host heterogeneity and the probability of pathogen invasion.
Supporting Evidence
- The study validated the hypothesis using a combination of statistical methods.
- A significant negative correlation was found between heterogeneity and the probability of invasion.
- The results align well with theoretical predictions regarding pathogen invasion.
- The methodology allowed for the assessment of the joint contribution of average and variance of transmissibility.
Takeaway
When there are different types of hosts, it's harder for a disease to spread. This study shows that having more variety among hosts can help stop the spread of a plant disease.
Methodology
The study used replicated experimental microcosms to analyze the spread of the fungus Rhizoctonia solani in populations with varying levels of host heterogeneity.
Potential Biases
Variability in environmental conditions among replicate populations could affect the results.
Limitations
The study was conducted on relatively small populations, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The study involved populations of nutrient sites representing hosts, but specific demographic details are not provided.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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