Abstract
The influence of body condition, molting status, sex, and pairing status on the helminth community at the component community level (all parasites in all individuals of a given host species in a defined geographic region) of an infrapopulation of mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) wintering on the Southern High Plains of Texas was examined. From a data matrix of 45 mallards (15 pairs and 15 unpaired males), pairing status was the most important variable that accounted for significant differences in helminth abundances. In six of 15 common helminth species (Sobolevicanthus gracilis, Microsomacanthus hopkinsi, Amidostomum acutum, Capillaria anatis, Capillaria contorta, and Epomidiostomum uncinatum), abundances were significantly higher in unpaired males than in paired birds. Abundance of only one of 15 helminth species (E. uncinatum) differed significantly between paired males and females. The significantly higher helminth abundances of unpaired males may be due to their potentially more gregarious and mobile behavior, which increases their exposure to certain helminth species. This study emphasizes the importance of incorporating social status in experimental designs involving waterfowl.
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 callDisclaimer: 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.
