Abstract

ABSTRACTS Feather chewing lice are common and important ectoparasites of birds. Here we report for the first time the presence of the ectoparasite, Colpocephalum trichosum Harrison1916 (Phthiraptera: Menoponidae on the Andean condor Vultur gryphus Linnaeus, 1758 from the North high Andes of Ecuador in Pichincha province. A total of 20 louse specimens were collected and analyzed from one free-living female juvenile host. Additionally, high resolution photographs of the louse are included, and a discussion on the potential implications of ectoparasites on the conservation of this threatened bird species is presented. Finally, we propose that further studies on Andean Condor ectoparasites should be focused on the potential causes and effects of these interactions.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.