Considerable progress has been made in recent years in unravelling the complexities of the snail–parasite relationship. The articles cover many different aspects, including ecology, parasite transmission, parasite interactions, evolutionary biology, molecular systematics and snail defense systems, emphasising the topical nature of this important area of parasite biology. Many new techniques are now used to investigate the intricacies of host–parasite relationships. Genome and post-genomic studies, such as the schistosome genome project, are set to revolutionise parasite biology and unravel molluscan genomes. The volume provides a useful and succinct overview and should also provide much impetus for future research.