Interspecific differences in carotenoid content and sensitivity to UVB radiation in three acanthocephalan parasites exploiting a common intermediate host

► Some acanthocephalan parasites have carotenoid-based pigmentation. ► Interspecific comparison shows that tolerance to ultra-violet (UV) B radiation is associated with higher carotenoid content, both in terms of lower lethality and less DNA damage. ► Tolerance to UVB is not related to the expected change in exposure to UV radiation due to parasite-induced changes in microhabitat. ► The hypothesis of adaptive carotenoid-based coloration in manipulative parasites in relation to UV protection is not supported.