Incidence of Porocephalus crotali (Pentastomida) in Florida Mammals

Abstract

Nymphs of Porocephalus crotali were found in 20 (0.9%) of 2,254 mammals examined from localities in 22 counties in Florida. Of 27 species included in the survey, infections were found in the Florida mouse, Peromyscus floridanus; cotton mouse, Peromyscus gossypinus; and cotton rat, Sigmodon hispidus. The last two species represent new intermediate host records for this parasite. Based on total individuals examined, incidence was 0.6, 4.3, and 0.2% in P. floridanus, P. gossypinus, and Sigmodon, respectively. Considering only samples from localities at which infections occurred, prevalence was 1.8% in Florida mice, 13.9% in cotton mice, and 1.0% in cotton rats. There was some evidence of a higher infection rate in males than females of P. gossypinus but not in P. floridanus. Over half of the infected rodents examined had more than a single nymph, the maximum number recorded being 85. Nymphs occurred at numerous sites in the viscera, mesenteries and walls of the body cavity. Infected animals did not appear to...