[Naturhistoriska riksmuseet Stockholm: 9 April - 8 November 2013]

Masters of a hidden universe - parasites are champions in evolutionary terms. The exhibition »Parasites – Life Undercover« takes visitors into their incredible microcosm, evoking both fascination and revulsion. It gives an insight into parasite life cycles, infestation routes and propagation strategies. It also sheds light on their evolutionary history and their extraordinary ability to exploit their hosts for their own purposes. Eye to eye with bedbugs and other creatures, visitors can find out where they are likely to come into contact with them and why parasites benefit from climate change and globalisation. Parasites have plagued us for centuries and gained a bad name, but they are not all bad news. As modern medicine and research show, they can have a beneficial role.
More than 50 original parasite specimens are put on public display for the first time – some of them quite eye-catching. Over 30 original preparations showing parasite-host interaction give a chill down the visitor‘s spine without resorting to cheap effects. Another highlight is a display cabinet teeming with live blood-sucking arthropods – safely behind glass!
The exhibition consists of modules with 10 topics forming selfcontained themed islands that can be adapted to the available space. Each island comprises a lit column and two to three tables with integrated media, graphics and various built-in features. Lighting and design are geared to a city audience.