Dino J Martins, an entomologist and evolutionary biologist who spent his youth in western Kenya marveling at dung beetles and butterfly nuptial gifts, has now turned his attention to the world’s most reviled creatures: parasites. In his new book, "Hidden Creatures: Luscious Leeches, Bashful Botflies and the Wondrous, History-Shaping World of Parasites," Martins argues that parasites are not just villains but essential players in biodiversity and evolution. He notes that one in three people hosts a parasitic nematode at any given time, including hookworms that "have sex frequently and vigorously" in our intestines. Despite our modern obsession with sterilization, Martins suggests that some exposure to parasites might actually boost immunity. He warns that efforts to eradicate them are futile due to natural selection, leading to a "long-term arms race between humans and hookworms." The book, published this month, draws on his encounters in East Africa, New York, Borneo, and London parks, aiming to show that even the most disgusting creatures have incredible adaptations.