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An Interconnected Look At How Pathogens Travel Between Species


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Which species do we share the most pathogens with? 

A fascinating data visualization published with the study shows that the strongest connection is between humans and lifestock. 

On the map, the lines connecting the species show at least one shared pathogen, with thicker lines indicating a greater number. Species are represented by dots, and the bigger the dot the more unique pathogens that attack only that species (humans FTW?).

Unsurprisingly, domesticated animals like dogs, cats, cattle and pigs overlap the most, but reptiles, amphibians, fish and rodents figure in as well. 

Just another beautiful reminder that we're all connected. 

[via Wired]

Pets, yikes!

At least the graphic is beautiful.

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