The genus Neopsittaconirmus (Psocodea: Ischnocera: Philopteridae) from parrots of Pakistan, and evaluation of its distribution on captive parrots (Psittaciformes) around the world

Abstract

The genus Neopsittaconirmus Conci, 1942 is a host-specific genus, found on both wild and captive parrots and love birds (order Psittaciformes). Two species of this genus: N. lybartota (Ansari, 1947) and N. chandabani (Ansari, 1947) have been previously reported from the Punjab province, Pakistan. We recorded N. lybartota from Psittacula eupatria nipalensis (n = 2), Psittacula krameri borealis (n = 13), and captive Psittacula krameri krameri (n = 4) with the mean intensity of 2.0 ± 1, 2.13 ± 0.35 and 2.25 ± 0.47, respectively; the prevalence of louse infestation was 62% in P. krameri borealis and 100% in P. krameri krameri and P. eupatria nipalensis. From this material, we redescribed its morphological variations in taxonomic features. Records on P. eupatria nipalensis and P. krameri krameri represent new host associations for this species of louse. We also present a new record of Neopsittaconirmus vendulae from a captive cockatiel, Nymphicus hollandicua (n = 3) in Pakistan, with mean intensity of 2.6 ± 0.66. Intraspecific variability of this species is described in detail, with special reference to the male and female terminalia, and male genitalia. We aimed to update and extend the fauna of chewing lice infesting birds of Pakistan. Previous records of Neopsittaconirmus on captive parrots around the world are summarized and discussed. Despite long-standing systematic veterinary care, some Neopsittaconirmus have cosmopolitan distribution and they are able to survive and successfully reproduce in captivity with their hosts, and even colonize novel hosts.