AbstractLittle is known of the biology of the majority of microparasites except for those of medical or veterinary importance. It is suggested that techniques already developed for identification and quantification of these important parasites should be modified as necessary and extended to the study of other microparasites. Isolation and maintenance of microparasites in laboratory‐maintained hosts will improve these diagnostic techniques and will also allow investigation of the biology of the parasites under controlled conditions. The value of laboratory‐based experiments as an adjunct to ecological studies is emphasized. Problems of interpretation are indica