Dino J Martins Publishes 'Hidden Creatures,' Casting 1 in 3 Humans as Parasite Hosts
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jul 19
Dino J Martins Publishes 'Hidden Creatures,' Casting 1 in 3 Humans as Parasite Hosts
1 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jul 19
Summary
Published this month, Hidden Creatures argues parasites are not just threats but markers of healthy, complex ecosystems that help explain biodiversity, extinction and evolution.
Martins says their importance is widely overlooked even though insects make up to 90% of animal species, and parasites affect all living things directly or indirectly.
The book draws on Martins' encounters in east Africa, New York, Borneo and London, including a childhood case of parasitic wasps erupting from a caterpillar he had raised.
Martins writes that 1 in 3 people host some parasitic nematode at any given time and argues some exposure may strengthen immunity rather than fit a purely sterilized view of health.
He links modern food systems to parasite spread—from dense fish farms to crowded livestock operations—and warns control efforts face natural selection, with hookworms still lacking an approved human vaccine.
If parasites are vital to ecosystems, should we rethink our war on diseases like malaria and sleeping sickness?
What medical breakthroughs are we losing with every parasite species that goes extinct?
Beyond Disgust: The Surprising Prevalence and Profound Impact of Parasites in Human Health, History, and Ecosystems
Overview
Dino J Martins' book, Hidden Creatures, published in July 2026, is set to change how people see parasites. Instead of viewing them with disgust, Martins invites readers to find fascination and even admiration for these often-overlooked organisms. The book explores the wondrous and revolting world of parasites, showing their vital roles in global ecosystems. Drawing on his experiences growing up in rural Kenya, Martins challenges readers to rethink the natural world and appreciate the complex connections between farms, food, and nature. His work encourages a fresh perspective on the hidden creatures that shape our planet.