Analysis of the spread of arachnoentomosis pathogens as an environmental risk in the implementation of acclimatization programs for large phytophages in the steppe biome (a case study of steppe research station “Orenburg Tarpania”)

Abstract

In this report. we compiled a species composition database relating to arachnoentomosis pathogens in animals living in the Orenburg region and potentially dangerous for the implementation of projects for the conservation movement of large phytophages. Horseflies (family Tabanidae) are represented by two subfamilies, seven genera and twenty-eight species of blood-sucking insects. Gadflies are represented by three families (Hypodermatidae, Gastrophilidae, and Oestridae), six genera, and twelve species. Parasitic mites of the order Acariformes are represented by three families (families Sarcoptidae, Psoroptidae and Demodecidae), four genera, and eight species. Based on our own studies, it was found that gadflies, in particular Gastrophilus intestinalis, represent the greatest danger among the pathogens of arachnoentomosis to animals kept in the Steppe Research Station “Orenburg Tarpania” managed by the Steppe Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences-Urals Branch (Przhevalsky horses, kiangs, two-humped camels, yaks, downy goats). Wool samples, skin scrapings and scarificat taken for microscopy from the premises for keeping animals kept both in the station and in private farmsteads revealed no sarcoproid mites.