Ectoparasite Species Research Articles

Bat ectoparasites (Diptera: Streblidae and Acari: Spinturnicidae) from an urban area in the Amazon-Cerrado transition

Parasites significantly influence ecosystems by controlling host populations and spreading diseases, thereby impacting ecological balances. In the Neotropics, hematophagous bat flies and mites are common ectoparasites of bats. The state of Mato Grosso, Brazil, hosts a diverse bat fauna across its Amazon Forest, Cerrado, and Pantanal habitats. We described bat flies and wing mites associated with bats in an urban area in the Amazon-Cerrado transition. Despite the expected diversity of bat in the study area, we expect to find a low number of ectoparasites species, as urban areas are typically associated with reduced parasite diversity. Bats were captured using mist nets, and ectoparasites collected manually or with tweezers and identified under the stereomicroscope. We found 10 species of ectoparasites (seven bat flies and three wingmites) from 181 bats across 22 species. The study found low ectoparasite diversity, possibly due to the small number of bats captured or the constraints found in the urban environment. Most observed bat-ectoparasite associations were consistent with previous studies, but some unexpected associations suggested possible contamination or transient relationships. This research fills a gap in the knowledge of bat ectoparasites in Mato Grosso, contributing to understanding bat-ectoparasite dynamics in diverse habitats.

Parasite traits, host traits, and environment as determinants of dark diversity affinity in flea and gamasid mite assemblages from the Palearctic

A species set in a site comprises species that are present (realized diversity) and species that could inhabit this site but are absent (dark diversity; DD). DD can be both species-driven (a species’ traits preclude its presence, independently of site features) and site-driven (site features preclude the species’ presence, independently of its traits). DD affinity (DDA) is a measure of species’ tendencies to be absent from sites that they could inhabit or of sites’ tendencies to lack species that could be present. Decomposition of DDA into DDA for species (ddasp) and for sites (ddasite) allows (a) disentangling these two mechanisms and (b) detecting species traits and site features contributing to their DDA. The species-site unified model is a Bayesian statistical model aimed at simultaneously estimating ddasp and ddasite. We applied it to flea and mite assemblages (a) within a host species across regions (component metacommunities; CtM; ddasite = ddaregion) and (b) within a region across host species (compound metacommunities; CdM, ddasite = ddahost). In CtMs, ddasp and ddaregion equally contributed to DD, whereas the relative contributions of ddasp and ddahost to DD in CdMs varied from the former being higher than the latter and vice versa. In CtM and CdM, ddasp increased in low-abundance ectoparasites exploiting a restricted number of hosts. In CtMs, ddaregion was associated with the regional environment, but we failed to find host traits affecting ddahost in CdMs. We conclude that ectoparasite species and either regions in CtMs or host species in CdMs independently contribute to DD.

Prevalence of domestic chicken ectoparasites in the east Goejam, Amhara, Ethiopia

Ectoparasites significantly impact the health and productivity of chickens, both directly and indirectly. From October 2022 to September 2023, a cross-sectional study was conducted in the East Gojam Zone of the Amhara region, North West Ethiopia to identifying the ectoparasite species infesting free-ranged chicken. Additionally, a questionnaire survey was used to assess farmers knowledge and attitudes towards control practices. The purposeful sampling method was utilized to select study districts and peasant associations (PAs), while the simple random sampling method was employed to select interviewed respondents (n = 90) and sampled chickens. Samples were collected from 384 chickens through visual examination of their entire bodies, including skin scraps, to expose any ectoparasites present. The ectoparasites were then identified according to diagnostic guidelines. Out of the 384 local chickens examined, 184 (47.9 %) were found to harbor one or more of ectoparasites. Four genera of ectoparasites were identified, with louse (Menacanthus stramineus) most prevalent species (N = 133/184) 72.3 % and fleas (Ceratophyllidae) being the least prevalent N = 3 (1.6 %). Lice species included Menacanthus stramineus (N = 98) 53.3 %, Lipeurus caponis (N = 15) 8.2 %, Goniocotes gallinae 7 (3.8 %), Menopon gallinae (N = 7) 3.8 %, and Cuclotogaster heterographus (N = 6) 3.3 %. Additionally, one species of ticks (Argas persicus, (N = 9) 4.9 %, mites (Knemidocoptes mutans, (N = 5) 2.7 %, and fleas (Echidnophaga gallinacean, (N = 3) 1.6 % were found. Statistically significant differences (p = 0.040) in prevalence were observed between age groups, breeds, management systems, and study areas. However, the prevalence was not statistically significant (p > 0.05) between sex categories. Results from the questionnaire survey revealed that most poultry farmers were female (N = 74) 82.2 % and illiterate (N = 52) 57.8 %. A majority of respondents (N = 55) 61.1 % lacked information regarding ectoparasite infestations in chickens, while (N = 36)36.7 % of respondents fed their chickens supplementary feed once a day. This study highlights the prevalence of ectoparasite infestations among chickens in the studied areas. Therefore, it is recommended to raise awareness among the community about control practices and conduct further studies focusing on the impacts of ectoparasites.

Cryptic speciation in the nematode family Longidoridae from South America: description of Xiphinema cryptocostaricense sp. nov. from Colombia and notes on X. seinhorsti

Abstract The genus Xiphinema Cobb, 1913 belongs to the family Longidoridae and consists of approximatelly 280 described species of plant-root ectoparasites. They occur on all continents except Antarctica and many species are important pests of crops, harming plants either by direct parasiting or by vectoring of nepoviruses. Due to their economic importance, several species were subjected to regulations aimed to limit their global spread. Moreover, the use of molecular techniques allowed to confirm the occurrence of cryptic species within the genus. In this paper we describe Xiphinema cryptocostaricense sp. nov., which constitutes the first instance of cryptic speciation within the family Longidoridae from South America. In terms of morphology this species is characterised by the body measuring 2.00–2.35 mm; lip region detached from the body outline only by a shallow constriction; odontostyle 129–135 µm long; V = 34.0–36.6; anterior branch of the genital tract largely reduced; tail short, almost hemispherical; lack of males and presence of four juvenile stages. This species is also characterised using molecular markers D2-D3 expansion domains of 28S rRNA, ITS1 rRNA and partial cytochrome oxidase c subunit 1 gene sequences. Based on morphology, this species is indistinguishable from X. costaricense Lamberti and Tarjan (Nematologia Mediterranea, 2, 1–11 1974). Additionally, a nomenclature remark is given- the name X. cryptocostaricense sp. nov. has been created by adding prefix ‘crypto’ to an already existing name of species. The advanatage of this approach is that it immediately points to which species it is cryptic to. Finally, new data regarding the second species, X. seinhorsti are given, including a first report of this species outside the place of its original description, data on molecular markers and morphology, including the first description of the J1 and J2 stages.

First record of ectoparasites (Phthiraptera and Acari) from the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) in Colombia.

Several species of ectoparasites, including chewing lice and mites are closely associated with their hosts. The Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) is globally listed as vulnerable by the IUCN and its population has been steadily declining in recent decades suggesting a potential extinction of associated entomofauna. The purpose of this study was to record the species of ectoparasites infesting three individuals of Andean condor found dead in the 'Páramo del Almorzadero' Santander Department, Northeastern Colombia. One juvenile (male) and two adults (male and female) Andean condors received for necropsy were carefully examined for ectoparasite infestation. Specimens were collected and preserved in ethanol (70%) for taxonomic studies. Morphologic identification and morphometric records were made under light microscopy. Some specimens were also prepared for scanning electron microscopy and others were subjected to DNA extraction to amplify and obtain sequences of the cytochrome-C oxidase subunit I (COI) gene for phylogenetic analyses. Lice were collected from the juvenile condor and the adult female and identified as Falcolipeurus assesor (Phthiraptera: Ischnocera) in the juvenile condor (8 females, 19 males and 8 nymphs) and the adult (1 female); Colpocephalum trichosum (Phthiraptera: Amblycera) in the juvenile (19 females, 24 males and 1 nymph) and the adult (2 females, 2 males and 3 nymphs); and Cuculiphilus zonatus (Phthiraptera: Amblycera) in the juvenile (40 females, 43 males and 15 nymphs) and the adult (1 male and 2 nymphs). Moreover, one mite collected from the juvenile condor was identified as Ancyralges cathartinus (Acari: Astigmata) (1 female). Morphometric data was obtained for the adult stages of F. assesor (6 females and 13 males), C. trichosum (9 females and 9 males) and C. zonatus (10 females and 10 males). We obtained the first DNA sequences of COI for F. assessor, and C. trichosum, where phylogenetic tree analysis showed that F. assessor is more closely related to Falcolipeurus marginalis, and C. trichosum to Colpocephalum kelloggi. This represents the first record of parasites in Andean condor from Colombia and contributes to the knowledge of chewing lice and mites associated with an endemic and endangered bird species. Further studies on Andean condor ectoparasites should be focused on documenting host-parasite interactions and potential health impacts in these wild birds.

Estimating pathogen-spillover risk using host-ectoparasite interactions.

Pathogen spillover corresponds to the transmission of a pathogen or parasite from an original host species to a novel host species, preluding disease emergence. Understanding the interacting factors that lead to pathogen transmission in a zoonotic cycle could help identify novel hosts of pathogens and the patterns that lead to disease emergence. We hypothesize that ecological and biogeographic factors drive host encounters, infection susceptibility, and cross-species spillover transmission. Using a rodent-ectoparasite system in the Neotropics, with shared ectoparasite associations as a proxy for ecological interaction between rodent species, we assessed relationships between rodents using geographic range, phylogenetic relatedness, and ectoparasite associations to determine the roles of generalist and specialist hosts in the transmission cycle of hantavirus. A total of 50 rodent species were ranked on their centrality in a network model based on ectoparasites sharing. Geographic proximity and phylogenetic relatedness were predictors for rodents to share ectoparasite species and were associated with shorter network path distance between rodents through shared ectoparasites. The rodent-ectoparasite network model successfully predicted independent data of seven known hantavirus hosts. The model predicted five novel rodent species as potential, unrecognized hantavirus hosts in South America. Findings suggest that ectoparasite data, geographic range, and phylogenetic relatedness of wildlife species could help predict novel hosts susceptible to infection and possible transmission of zoonotic pathogens. Hantavirus is a high-consequence zoonotic pathogen with documented animal-to-animal, animal-to-human, and human-to-human transmission. Predictions of new rodent hosts can guide active epidemiological surveillance in specific areas and wildlife species to mitigate hantavirus spillover transmission risk from rodents to humans. This study supports the idea that ectoparasite relationships among rodents are a proxy of host species interactions and can inform transmission cycles of diverse pathogens circulating in wildlife disease systems, including wildlife viruses with epidemic potential, such as hantavirus.

Ectoparasite infestation on cattle husbandry in oil palm plantation afdeling II, North Sumatra

The occurrence of ectoparasite infestation in cattle contributes significantly to the success of cattle farming. A study on ectoparasite infestation in cattle (Bos sp.) was conducted in the oil palm plantation Afdeling II, Gunung Kataran Village, Tebing Tinggi Subdistrict, Serdang Bedagai Regency, North Sumatra. The research aimed to determine the types, prevalence, and intensity of infestation in three cattle breeds (Madrasin, Limousin, and Simmental), with each breed consisting of 10 individuals. Ectoparasite samples were collected using two methods: sweeping with a net and manual inspection of the entire cattle body. The identified ectoparasite species included Boophilus microplus, Musca domestica, Stomoxys calcitrans, Culex sp., and Haemadipsa sp. The prevalence of ectoparasite infestation across the three breeds (Madrasin, Limousin, and Simmental) ranged from 80% to 100%, falling into the ‘usually-always’ category. The intensity of ectoparasite infestation across the three breeds ranged from 4.22 to 97.4, categorized as ‘light-heavy’. Musca domestica emerged as the most dominant ectoparasite species affecting the cattle in this study. The presence of ectoparasites was found to be significantly influenced by the cleanliness of the rearing environment.”

ECTOPARASITES OF DOMESTIC PIGEONS (Columba livia domestica) IN DIYARBAKIR PROVINCE IN TÜRKIYE

Ectoparasitic diseases have been observed in studies that have negative effects, especially on the development of pigeons. This study was conducted to determine the ectoparasite species found in domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) in Diyarbakır city center. A total of 125 pigeons in Diyarbakır and its center were studied in terms of ectoparasites. It was determined that 66 (52.8%) of 125 pigeons examined during the study process in Diyarbakır were infested with various ectoparasite species at varying degrees. Columbicola columbae was found in 48% of the pigeons and Goniocotes bidentatus in 4.8%. One species was found in 60 (91%) of the infested pigeons and two species (C. Columbae + G.bidentatus) were found together in 6 (9%) of the infested pigeons.

Ecto- and helminths of <i>Columba livia</i> and <i>Streptopelia roseogrisea</i> in Alimosho community, Lagos State, Nigeria

Fifty wild columbids (25 each of Columba livia and Streptopelia roseogrisea) were trapped in Alimosho, Lagos State, Nigeria from January to June 2022 and examined for ectoparasites and intestinal helminths following standard procedures. Three (6%) of the birds were infested with two species of ectoparasites. Prevalence and mean intensity of infection were: Gonoides gigas 6% and 0.34±SD; Columbicola columbae 6% and 0.14±SD respectively. Thirty-two (64%) of the birds were infected with helminths, represented by three species of cestodes and one species of nematode. The prevalence and mean intensity of infection of the cestodes were as follows: Raillientina echinobothrida 50% and 25±SD), Raillientina tetragona 40% and 20±SD and Raillientina cesticillus 20% and 10±SD, while the nematode recovered was Ascarida galli with prevalence and mean intensity of infection of 4% and 2±SD. Only 9.4% of the birds studied harboured triple infections, while 6.3% of the birds had double infection. The prevalence of gastro intestinal helminths within Streptopelia roseogrisea was higher for cestodes (p< 0.05) and for ectoparasitic infestation, Gonoides gigas had the highest prevalence (6%; p< 0.05). The overall prevalence (64.00%) of parasitic infection among columbids in this study was high, with Raillientina sp, a zoonotic parasite, dominating the infections. This demands for control, considering the close proximity of pigeons to man.

Status, Gaps and Perspectives of Powdery Mildew Resistance Research and Breeding in Cucurbits

Cucurbitaceae, the gourd family of flowering plants, is a very large and diverse family, the order Cucurbitales, contains 95 genera and 950–980 species of food and ornamental plants, and wild and weedy species mostly with high genetic diversity. This review is focused on the most important cucurbit crops (Cucumis sativus, Cucumis melo, Cucurbita spp., Citrullus lanatus, Momordica charantia, Lagenaria siceraria, and Luffa acutangula) and some their wild relatives as hosts of cucurbit powdery mildews (CPM). Powdery mildews (PM) (Ascomycota, Erysiphales) are one of the most frequently encountered and easily visible groups of plant pathogenic fungi with > 900 species. They are obligate biotrophs, they colonize above-ground plant tissues, mostly leaves, though they may also colonize stems, petioles, flowers and fruits, and they are usually debilitators, not killers. These parasitic fungi have been problematic on cucurbits for a long time world-wide, causing serious economic losses in yield and quality. All economically important cucurbit crops host CPM. Seven PM species with different taxonomic positions, host ranges, geographic distributions and ecological requirements are known on cucurbits. CPM species taxonomy and denomination rapidly changed during last few decades through detailed analyses and clarifications. At least three PM species frequently parasitize cucurbits: the endoparasite Leveillula taurica (Lt) with marginal economic importance; and two ectoparasitic species, Golovinomyces orontii (Go), and Podosphaera xanthii (Px), which are economically important world-wide. The two pathogens differ in ecological requirements and distribution, though they may occur together in mixed infections. They are highly variable at the population level for virulence, race identities, and fast adaptation of pathogens. Cucurbit-CPM species interactions are diverse and complicated, and differ between hosts and their respective pathogen genera and species. Here we present a critical overview of obstacles, gaps and recent progress in these matters for six cucurbit genera with respect to resistance resources, genetics of resistance, genetic mapping and development of molecular markers, physiology and mechanisms of resistance, developments in mlo-mediated resistance, patents, and CPM resistance breeding.

PREVALENCE OF ECTOPARASITES OF FRY TILAPIA (COPTODON ZILLII) FISHES FROM EUPHRATES RIVER, IRAQ

Ectoparasitic infection represents one of the main challenges to freshwater and marine fish in all areas of the world. This study detected ectoparasite types in Fry Redbelly Tilapia Fishes. The specimens (250) were purchased from a market with a source of fish from the Euphrates River. Fishes were collected from December 2022 until the end of April 2023. The samples were used for macroscopic inspection, gross viscera, and microscopic exam - wet mount of fins, skin, gills and eyes. Ectoparasite species were obtained on fins, skin, and gills, and the eyes had no infection. The total prevalence was 140 (56%) of 250 fish. Significant fish types with weight and length are at (P ≤ 0.05) and (P ≤0.01), respectively. The mean and standard deviation according to weight were 71.4 and 14.7, while according to length, they were 15.6 and 1.9. Non-significant for genders in both types at (P ≥ 0.05). The host Coptodon zillii is infested by four types of ectoparasites were included, with prevalence for each one being Ichthyophthirius sp., 80/250 (32%); Trichodina sp., 30/140 (12%); Dactylogyrus sp., 20/250 (8%); Gyrodactylus sp.10/250 (4%). In conclusion, all parasites, namely single-host types. Management measures should be taken to save the procurement and import from reputable global markets.

Intensity and prevalence of ectoparasites in whiteleg shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei and mud crab Scylla serrata harvested from Aceh waters Indonesia

Ectoparasite infections are a common problem in small-scale aquaculture, exerting a substantial influence on fishery production. In the context of Indonesia, the two prevalent fishery commodities are whiteleg shrimp Litopenaeus vannameii and mud crab Scylla serrata. These species are extensively cultured within Aceh province, using traditional and semi-intensive aquaculture ponds and there are no reports on ectoparasites in these two species of crustaceans. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the intensity and prevalence of ectoparasites in mud crab and whiteleg shrimp from Aceh between August to December 2022. Mud crab samples were collected from three locations, namely Langsa City, East Aceh, and North Aceh districts, while whiteleg shrimp samples were sampled from coastal ponds in Banda Aceh, Aceh Besar, and Aceh Jaya districts. The samples were collected over five months, and a total of 300 for each species were examined microscopically by scraping the swimming legs body, and gills. Furthermore, macroscopic-sized and microscopic-sized ectoparasites were observed using stereo and binocular microscopes, respectively. The results showed that five species of ectoparasites were recorded during the study, namely Octolasmis sp., Vorticella sp., Epistylis sp., Oodinium sp., and Zoothamnium sp. Mud crab exhibited infestations of Octolasmis sp., Vorticella sp., Epistylis sp., and Oodinium sp., while whiteleg shrimp were infested by Vorticella sp., Epistylis sp., and Oodinium sp. In this study, the highest intensity for crab and shrimp was recorded in Octolasmis sp. and Epistylis sp., in November and September, respectively. The gills showed higher intensity compared to other infested organs and based on sample origin, crab and shrimp from Langsa and Banda Aceh Cities had higher results compared to other locations. The prevalence of ectoparasites exhibited a high value, reaching 100%, showing that crustacean samples were infested by ectoparasites. Therefore, the intensity of ectoparasite was varied according to sample of origin, time of sampling and infested organs. The samples of both crab and whiteleg shrimp from all locations consistently exhibited ectoparasite infestations throughout the entire study period.Keywords:Octolasmis sp.Vorticella sp.Epistylis sp.Oodinium sp.Zoothamnium sp.

A Study on Major Ectoparasites and Associated Skin Diseases of Ruminants in and Around Bishoftu Town, Central Ethiopia

A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2018 to April 2019 to evaluate the occurrence of ectoparasites and associated skin diseases in ruminants in and around Bishoftu town, central Ethiopia. A total of 437 ruminants (216 cattle, 141 sheep, and 80 goats) brought to the open-air Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Addis Ababa University, were sampled using simple random sampling. Accordingly, the occurrence of ectoparasites and associated skin diseases was found to be 59% (258), and out of these animals, 195 (44.6%) were infected with ectoparasites, of which 111 (25.4%) were bovine, 27 (6.2%) were caprine, and 57 (13%) were ovine. The major ectoparasite species identified were Amblyomma variegatum (13%), A. gemma (0.7%), A. cohaerens (1.8%), A. nymph (3.2%), H. truncatum (2.7%), Boophilus decoloratus (6.2%), Rhipicephalus pulchellus (1.8%), R. eversi (0.7%), Damalinia ovis (3%), Linognatus vituli (5.5%), Psoroptes (0.7%), Demodex bovis (0.5%), Ctenocephalides canis (0.7%) and Ct. felis (5.03). On the other hand, the associated skin diseases infesting animals were: 63 (14.4%), lumpy skin disease (0.9%), sheep pox (5.5%), goat pox (5%), dermatophilosis (0.2%), contagious ecthyma in caprine (2.1%), and contagious ecthyma in ovine (0.7%). The findings of the present study suggest that ectoparasites and associated skin diseases in and around Bishoftu are still widespread and economically important constraints for the productivity and use of ruminants. Hence, stringent adherence to the control of ectoparasites and associated skin diseases is required as a responsibility of the concerned government body based on professional research results in the study area.

Ectoparasites of European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) in Germany and their health impact

BackgroundThe European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is known for high levels of ectoparasitism that not only represents a health risk for the animals themselves, but also for pet animals and humans as hedgehogs are frequently taken into human care. In the present study, patterns of ectoparasite infestation were assessed in hedgehogs taken into care at northern German animal rehabilitation centres.MethodsEctoparasites (ticks, fleas and mites) of 498 hedgehogs were collected over a period of 3 years from July 2018 to May 2021. Species were identified based on morphological characteristics and also via amplification and sequencing of the partial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 2 (COX-2) gene for fleas of the family Ceratophyllidae. Seasonal changes in infestation patterns as well as correlations with animal age, body weight and health status were assessed using generalised linear models.ResultsInfestation with ticks, fleas and mites occurred throughout the year. Overall, 86.5% (431/498) of the examined hedgehogs were infested with ticks, 91.4% (455/498) with fleas and 17.7% (88/498) with mites.Ixodes ricinus and Ixodes hexagonus/Ixodes canisuga were the most common tick species detected, with the additional occurrence of one Ixodes frontalis. Significant seasonal changes were observed for I. ricinus, but not for I. hexagonus/I. canisuga. Additionally, I. ricinus nymph prevalence declined significantly as of 2020, probably as a consequence of the climate change-related drought as of 2018. In hedgehogs with flea infestations, Archaeopsylla erinacei, Ceratophyllus sciurorum, Nosopsyllus fasciatus and Ctenocephalides felis were identified. In all cases of mite infestation, Caparinia tripilis was detected, in addition to specimens of the family Macronyssidae and free-living mites of the family Acaridae. Statistical analyses showed correlations regarding the factors month, year, body weight and age, but no correlation was evident regarding the health status of the animals.ConclusionsWith a detected infestation rate of 98.6%, almost all of the examined hedgehogs were infested with at least one ectoparasite species. The seasonal activity patterns of the different ectoparasite species together with the complex annual cycle of hedgehogs lead to different seasonal patterns in ectoparasite prevalence and infestation intensities. Due to the risk of transmission of zoonotic pathogens as well as the possible negative impact on the host itself, hedgehogs should be treated against ectoparasites when taken into care facilities.Graphical

Structure of ectoparasite communities of Nyctalus species (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) in the Zhiguli State Nature Reserve and Samarskaya Luka National Park (European Russia)

The ectoparasites of the bats (Chiroptera) often act as carriers of infectious agents dangerous to animals and humans. This determines the relevance of studying ectoparasite communities. In this regard, the composition of communities and interspecific relations of ectoparasites of migratory bats are of particular interest, since they can be a source of arthropods with vector potential that are atypical in a studied area. This research was aimed to study the species composition, community structure and parasite-host specificity of ectoparasites in syntopic populations of bats of the genus Nyctalus. The study has been carried out in the Zhiguli State Biosphere Reserve and Samarskaya Luka National Park (Russia). A total of 78 individuals of Nyctalus were examined, namely Nyctalus noctula (47 individuals), N. leisleri (21 individuals) and N. lasiopterus (ten individuals). They were captured by ornithological nets in the summer period in 2017–2019. The collected ectoparasites were fixed in alcohol, and permanent preparations were made using Fora-Berlese liquid. In total, we found 19 ectoparasite species, namely one Hemiptera species (Cimex lectularius), four Ischnopsyllidae species, and 14 species of Spinturnicidae and Macronyssidae families. Of these, eight ectoparasite species have been found for the first time in Russia on Nyctalus species. Nine ectoparasites species were found on Nyctalus leisleri, 15 species on N. noctula, and 11 species on N. lasiopterus. The most massive and widespread parasite on Nyctalus is Macronyssus flavus. In addition, we demonstrated a high infestation of Nyctalus noctula by Spinturnix acuminatus and Steatonyssus noctulus, of Nyctalus lasiopterus by Spinturnix acuminatus and of Nyctalus leisleri by Steatonyssus spinosus. Among casual parasites of Nyctalus, there are Spinturnix helvetiae, S. myoti, S. plecotinus, Ischnopsyllus octactenus, I. variabilis, Macronyssus ellipticus, and Steatonyssus periblepharus. The correspondence analysis of certain ectoparasite communities, differing in qualitative and quantitative composition, with the host species demonstrated the general structure of parasite-host relationships. Nyctalus noctula has the highest diversity of ectoparasite communities and the model of the log-normal distribution of species abundance confirmed this. In terms of species composition, the parasite communities of Nyctalus noctula and N. lasiopterus were the most similar, while the parasite communities of Nyctalus noctula and N. leisleri were the least similar. The key components involved in the differentiation of ectoparasitic communities were the following species: Spinturnix acuminatus, S. kolenatii, Steatonyssus spinosus, and Macronyssus flavus, which have different infestation values in their hosts. Co-occurrence analysis revealed a strong positive relationship for 28 ectoparasite species pairs and a strong negative relationship for 26 species, which may be explained by weakened competitive relations between the ectoparasites. The observed assortativity of parasite species among themselves has been discussed.

The metazoan parasite community of the barred grunt Conodon nobilis (Actinopterygii: Haemulidae) from the coast off Rio de Janeiro, southeastern Brazil.

The barred grunt, Conodon nobilis (Linnaeus, 1758), is one of the most important marine-estuarine fish along the Brazilian coast. The present study evaluated the parasite fauna of this haemulid fish along the Southern Atlantic coast. From September 2010 to July 2011, a total of 100 specimens of C. nobilis from Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil (23°01'21"S, 44°19'13"W), were examined. Ninety-seven individuals were parasitized by at least one species of metazoan, with a mean of 4.50 ± 3.54 parasites per fish. Eighteen species of parasites were collected: eight copepods, four digeneans, two cestodes, one acanthocephalan, one aspidogastrean, one isopod and one monogenean. The copepod Lernanthropus rathbuni was the most abundant and dominant species, accounting for 17.77% of all parasite specimens collected. Caligus haemulonis was the most prevalent. Prevalence and abundance of Acantholochus lamellatus and L. rathbuni tended to be higher in smaller fish, whereas those of Torticaecum sp. were higher in larger fish. The mean abundance of C. haemulonis was significantly higher in male hosts. A negative association was observed between two species of ectoparasites. The parasite community of C. nobilis was characterized by dominance of copepods, which can be related to host's schooling behavior.

Prevalence of parasites in selected captive bird species.

Blood and fecal samples of chukar partridge (Alectoris chukar), albino pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera), rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri) and turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) were analyzed to check parasitic prevalence. To record parasites these five avian species were placed kept in separate cages at Avian Conservation and Research Center, Department of Wildlife an Ecology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan. 100 fecal and 100 blood samples for each bird species were inspected to analyze internal parasites. During present study, 17 species of endoparasites 14 from fecal samples and three from blood were examined. Two species of ectoparasites i.e. mite Dermanyssus gallinae 42% and fowl ticks Args persicus 41%were studied. Blood parasites included Plasmodium juxtanucleare 50%, Leucoctoyzoon simond having parasitic prevalence 40%, and Aegyptinella pullorum having parasitic prevalence of 40%. Parasitic species recorded from fecal samples included 6 species of nematodes viz. Allodpa suctoria 2%. Syngamus trachea with parasitic prevalence of 60%, Capillaria annulata 37.5%, Ascardia galli 24%, Capillaria anatis 40% and Heterakis gallinarum 28.3%. Similarly, two species of trematodes viz. Prosthogonimus ovatus having parasitic prevalence of 50% and Prosthogonimus macrorchis 21% were also documented from fecal avian samples . Single cestode species Raillietina echinobothrida having parasitic prevalence of 72% and 3 protozoan species i.e. Eimeria maxima having parasitic prevalence of 21%, Giardia lamblia 41% and Histomonas meleagridis 18% were documented during corpological analysis. In our recommendation, proper sanitation, medication and vaccination of bird's enclousres are suggested to avoid parasites.

Ecological and phylogenetic components of flatfish ectoparasites (Pleuronectiformes: Paralichthyidae) from the Southern Gulf of Mexico.

For many years, parasite ecologists have debated the relative importance of phylogeny and ecology as drivers of parasite community structure. Here, we address this issue using data on the metazoan ectoparasite communities of different flatfish species. Twenty species of flatfish were collected along the continental shelf of the Southern Gulf of Mexico and examined for ectoparasites. Eight flatfish species were parasitized by at least one ectoparasite species. In total, 326 ectoparasites, representing 11 species (4 monogeneans, 4 copepods, 1 isopod, 1 branchiurid, and 1 leech) were removed from 1622 hosts examined. The highest prevalence (37.5%) occurred in Bomolochus sp1 from Trinectes maculatus, while the lower (0.1%) for Argulus sp., Gnathia sp. and Trachellobdella lubrica from Cyclopsetta chittendeni. Changes in the ectoparasite community structure per host species and region were evaluated using a Permutational Multivariate Analysis of Variance and represented by a multidimensional scaling analysis. Significant differences in the parasite species composition among regions and hosts were detected, but no significant interaction between regions and hosts occurred. A multivariate pairwise t-test detected significant differences in the parasite infracommunities between the Yucatan Shelf and the other two regions; in addition, significant differences were detected between C. chittendeni and the Syacium species as well as between Ancylopsetta dilecta and Syacium papillosum. In this case, there is no relationship between the patterns of ectoparasitic community structure and the inherent phylogenetic affinity of the hosts; instead, the variations in ectoparasitic communities are determined by a regional ecological component.

Evaluation of the “3-minute search and collect” protocol for dog ectoparasite surveys in the domestic-wildlife interface area

Background and Aim: Dog ectoparasites are a major concern regarding the emergence of several vector-borne zoonotic diseases associated with domestic dogs. Information on the quantified assessment of ectoparasite collection methods from dogs remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the ‘3-minute method’ for collecting dog ectoparasites in the human and wildlife border interface in Northern Thailand. Materials and Methods: The ‘3-minute method’ (TMM) was compared with the bathing-combing method (BCM) in 31 domestic dogs in the domestic-wildlife interface area, comprising 4 villages in Nan province, Thailand, from July 2022 to July 2023. All ectoparasites were collected, and morphological identification was confirmed. The percentage of agreement between TMM and BCM was calculated using Kappa. A seasonal comparison of ectoparasite infestation was conducted using the TMM method. Results: Comparatively, the diversity of ectoparasites collected by TMM was revealed to be similar to the BCM method; ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Ixodida: Ixodidae), Haemaphysalis spp. (Ixodida: Ixodidae), Dermacentor spp. (Ixodida: Ixodidae)), fleas (Ctenocephalides felis orientis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae), Ctenocephalides felis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae)) and lice (Heterodoxus spp. (Phthiraptera: Boopiidae)). More ectoparasites were collected by the BCM than by the TMM method. The average efficiency percentages of TMM and BCM were 12.8% and 87.2%, respectively. The observed percentage agreement between BCM and TMM was very good (K=0.9) for ticks, good (K=0.7) for fleas, and moderate (K=0.5) for lice. The diversity of ectoparasites in dogs living in the domestic dogs-wildlife interface area showed that there were 4 species of ectoparasites collected in the dry season compared to 6 species in the rainy season. Conclusion: The fast-body search for 3 minutes is a fast, inexpensive, and effective method for the identification and study of the diversity and abundance of ectoparasites from owned dogs when compared to bathing and combing methods with Amitraz. This method can be used as a non-invasive technique to collect ectoparasites from domesticated dogs for further study. Sharing ectoparasites from wildlife to domestic dogs in the domestic-wildlife interface area has reported.

Ectoparasite crustaceans of ten fish species from the upper Araguari River in northern Brazil.

Fish parasites are an important part of aquatic biodiversity and knowing these species and their interactions with their hosts helps in monitoring the aquatic biota. The present study investigated the ectoparasite crustacean fauna of ten fish species from the upper Araguari River, in the state of Amapá, northern Brazil. A total of 508 fish were collected and analyzed from July to November 2014, of which 82.6% (109) were parasitized by one or more crustacean ectoparasite species. In the ten host fish species, a total of 308 ectoparasite specimens were collected, from 12 taxa, such as Argulus multicolor Stekhoven, 1937, Argulus spinulosus Silva, 1980, Argulus sp.1, Argulus sp.2, Argulus sp.3, Dipteropeltis sp., Dipteropeltis hirundo Calman, 1912, Dolops bidentata Bouvier, 1899, Dolops striata Bouvier, 1899 (Argulidae), Braga fluviatilis Richardson, 1911, Braga amapaensis Thatcher, 1996 (Cymothoidae) and Excorallana berbicensis Boone, 1918 (Corallanidae). Higher levels of prevalence and abundance were recorded for Hoplias aimara (Valenciennes, 1847) and Tometes trilobatus Valenciennes, 1850, respectively. These ectoparasites were found in the fins, integument, mouth, and anus of the host fish. Argulus sp.2 and D. bidentata were the most abundant parasites (65.1%), and had the highest species richness. This study registered 36 novel host-parasite interactions, and thus represents a new record for all host species here examined.