Presence Of Mites Research Articles

Nest secondary plants and their associations with haemosporidian blood parasites in blue tit females

Abstract Avian nests often contain aromatic plant fragments, which has led to propose among others that they repel ectoparasites or vectors of blood parasites (‘nest protection hypothesis’). To date, the relationship between secondary plant provisioning and the parent's blood parasites remains unexplored. We investigated whether the presence of secondary plants in nests during different reproductive stages (before incubation, during incubation and nestling period) was associated with the presence of nest-dwelling ectoparasites and females’ blood-parasite infections in blue tits (Cyanistes caeruleus) during chick rearing. In this species, females are highly exposed to parasites, particularly at the beginning of the breeding season, since they build the nest and incubate alone. They also brood the nestlings while the male assists with provisioning. We found that females that provided fewer plants before incubation were more likely to be infected by Plasmodium. Specifically, Females that did not provide Achillea herbs before incubation were more likely to be infected by both Plasmodium and Haemoproteus, reinforcing the ‘nest protection’ hypothesis. Thus, secondary plants may create an early environment that masks the odour of hosts or repels vectors. Surprisingly, the presence of Lavandula during the nestling period was positively related to Leucocytozoon infection. Given its fastest development among haemosporidians, we speculate that Lavandula herbs are provided by females to reduce mother-to-offspring transmission or as a self-medication strategy. Finally, the number of plant fragments provided before incubation was negatively associated with the number of (Protocalliphora azurea) larvae, whereas there were no associations with the presence of mites (Dermanyssus gallinoides).

Assessing performance of Amblyseius swirskii as a predatory mite of Tetranychus urticae and Frankliniella occidentalis: life table and foraging behaviour studies

ABSTRACT Life table parameters of Amblyseius swirskii when Frankliniella occidentalis and Tetranychus urticae were offered solely as diet were investigated. The switching behaviour of this predator was studied on F. occidentalis in the presence of spider mites. The data showed that feeding on the spider mite resulted in significantly longer developmental time compared to thrips. We found a significant effect of prey on the total life span, adult pre-oviposition period (APOP), and total pre-oviposition period (TPOP) of the predatory mite. The length of the oviposition period and the number of laid eggs per female were not affected by the kind of the offered prey. None of population growth parameters was affected by the type of diet except for mean generation time (T). Predators fed on spider mite had a longer T than those reared on thrips. Furthermore, our data illustrated a negative switching in the behaviour of A. swirskii when T. urticae and F. occidentalis were present. In other words, the predator switched from the abundant prey to the rarer prey. The results of this study are needed to understand and forecast the performance of A. swirskii in greenhouse environments where both T. urticae and F. occidentalis can be present.

The species, density, and intra-plant distribution of mites on red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.).

The adoption of the European Green Deal will limit acaricide use in high value crops like raspberry, to be replaced by biological control and other alternative strategies. More basic knowledge on mites in such crops is then necessary, like species, density, and their role as vectors of plant diseases. This study had four aims, focusing on raspberry leaves at northern altitude: (1) identify mite species; (2) study mite population densities; (3) investigate mite intra-plant distribution; (4) investigate co-occurrence of phytophagous mites, raspberry leaf blotch disorder and raspberry leaf blotch virus (RLBV). Four sites in south-eastern Norway were sampled five times. Floricanes from different parts of the sites were collected, taking one leaf from each of the upper, middle, and bottom zones of the cane. Mites were extracted with a washing technique and processed for species identification and RLBV detection. Mites and leaves were tested for RLBV by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with virus-specific primers. Phytophagous mites, Phyllocoptes gracilis, Tetranychus urticae, and Neotetranychus rubi, and predatory mites, Anystis baccarum and Typhlodromus (Typhlodromus) pyri were identified. All phytophagous mites in cultivated raspberry preferred the upper zone of floricanes, while in non-cultivated raspberry, they preferred the middle zone. The presence of phytophagous mites did not lead to raspberry leaf blotch disorder during this study. RLBV was detected in 1.3% of the sampled plants, none of them with leaf blotch symptoms, and in 4.3% of P. gracilis samples, and in some spider mite samples, implying that Tetranychids could also be vectors of RLBV.

Detection of demodex mites in papulopustular rosacea using microscopic examination and polymerase chain reaction: a comparative case-control study

Demodex mite proliferation is frequently involved in the pathogenesis of rosacea. The gold standard for Demodex identification is microscopic examination on a standardized skin surface biopsy. However, this method of sampling can be distressing and painful, especially when performed on hairy sites. In this case-control study, we compared the sensitivity of PCR and microscopic examination in diagnosing a Demodex infestation. Moreover, we investigated the possible correlations between the presence of Demodex mites and clinical characteristics. In total, 20 patients affected by papulopustular rosacea and 10 controls were included. At both microscopic examination and PCR, patients with rosacea presented a greater prevalence of positive samples than controls at the scalp and at the face. Microscopy had sensitivity of 50% at the face and of 46.7% at the scalp. PCR had sensitivity of 93.75% at the face and of 86.7% at the scalp. The positivity of PCR was associated to a higher frequency of facial papules and pustules. Patients with positivity at the face had a more frequent positivity at the scalp. The scalp could represent a reservoir for the Demodex mites, and should be investigated by sensitive and painless methods. PCR performed on painlessly collected samples should be further investigated.

Varroa destructor shapes the unique viral landscapes of the honey bee populations of the Azores archipelago.

The worldwide dispersal of the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor from its Asian origins has fundamentally transformed the relationship of the honey bee (Apis mellifera) with several of its viruses, via changes in transmission and/or host immunosuppression. The extent to which honey bee-virus relationships change after Varroa invasion is poorly understood for most viruses, in part because there are few places in the world with several geographically close but completely isolated honey bee populations that either have, or have not, been exposed long-term to Varroa, allowing for separate ecological, epidemiological, and adaptive relationships to develop between honey bees and their viruses, in relation to the mite's presence or absence. The Azores is one such place, as it contains islands with and without the mite. Here, we combined qPCR with meta-amplicon deep sequencing to uncover the relationship between Varroa presence, and the prevalence, load, diversity, and phylogeographic structure of eight honey bee viruses screened across the archipelago. Four viruses were not detected on any island (ABPV-Acute bee paralysis virus, KBV-Kashmir bee virus, IAPV-Israeli acute bee paralysis virus, BeeMLV-Bee macula-like virus); one (SBV-Sacbrood virus) was detected only on mite-infested islands; one (CBPV-Chronic bee paralysis virus) occurred on some islands, and two (BQCV-Black queen cell virus, LSV-Lake Sinai virus,) were present on every single island. This multi-virus screening builds upon a parallel survey of Deformed wing virus (DWV) strains that uncovered a remarkably heterogeneous viral landscape featuring Varroa-infested islands dominated by DWV-A and -B, Varroa-free islands naïve to DWV, and a refuge of the rare DWV-C dominating the easternmost Varroa-free islands. While all four detected viruses investigated here were affected by Varroa for one or two parameters (usually prevalence and/or the Richness component of ASV diversity), the strongest effect was observed for the multi-strain LSV. Varroa unambiguously led to elevated prevalence, load, and diversity (Richness and Shannon Index) of LSV, with these results largely shaped by LSV-2, a major LSV strain. Unprecedented insights into the mite-virus relationship were further gained from implementing a phylogeographic approach. In addition to enabling the identification of a novel LSV strain that dominated the unique viral landscape of the easternmost islands, this approach, in combination with the recovered diversity patterns, strongly suggests that Varroa is driving the evolutionary change of LSV in the Azores. This study greatly advances the current understanding of the effect of Varroa on the epidemiology and adaptive evolution of these less-studied viruses, whose relationship with Varroa has thus far been poorly defined.

Administering Fluralaner in Drinking Water for Treatment of Dermanyssus gallinae Infestation in Hy-Line W80 Laying Hens

Background: Poultry red mites, or Dermanyssus gallinae, pose a threat to the welfare and productivity of laying hens. Moreover, the increasing resistance of these mites to conventional miticides highlights the urgent need for alternative treatment options. There are also documented cases of poultry red mite infestations in humans. Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of fluralaner against Dermanyssus gallinae infestation in hens. Methods: Fluralaner was selected as a novel treatment for poultry red mite due to its effectiveness and safety profile. The presence of live mites in the drinking water tank served as the indicator of infestation. Live mites were counted on nine occasions throughout the study. Fluralaner was administered at three doses of 0.5 mg/kg in drinking water with a seven-day interval between each dose. The efficacy of fluralaner was assessed, with an efficacy percentage exceeding 90% considered indicative of antiparasitic efficacy. Results: The overall efficacy of Fluralaner in the current study exceeded 90% by day 5 and reached 100% by day 17. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that fluralaner is an effective alternative treatment, achieving efficacy rates exceeding 90% against poultry red mite infestation in laying hens.

Role of Topical 5-Fluorouracil in Demodex -Associated Blepharitis.

The aim of this study was to report clinical observations suggesting the efficacy of topical 1% 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in treating Demodex -associated blepharitis. An observational retrospective review of 13 eyes from 13 individuals with conjunctival neoplastic lesions and concomitant Demodex lash infestation that received topical 1% 5-FU eye drops. Patients underwent slit-lamp examination at each follow-up visit. Clinical photographs of the lash line were obtained after treatment initiation. In a subset of patients, lashes were epilated bilaterally and microscopically analyzed for presence of Demodex mites before and after treatment initiation. The mean age of the population was 68 ± 14 years (range: 30-84 years) and 92% were male. In all 13 patients, a marked reduction in cylindrical dandruff was noted in the treated eye by slit-lamp examination after 2 cycles of 5-FU. There was complete resolution of cylindrical dandruff in 10 of 13 treated eyes compared with 0 resolution of cylindrical dandruff in untreated eyes ( P = 0.0001). In the 6 patients who received epilation, the lashes from the treated eye showed no Demodex , whereas lashes from the fellow untreated eye revealed persistent Demodex . Topical 1% 5-FU shows efficacy in treating Demodex -associated blepharitis. Further studies are indicated to reproduce our findings and evaluate the potential use of 5-FU as a treatment ingredient.

Ghosts of parasites past influence current non-consumptive effects in Drosophila nigrospiracula

Parasites can indirectly impact hosts through non-consumptive effects (NCEs) via changes in behaviour, morphology, and/or physiology. These responses can be understood in terms of the ecology of fear (ectoparasites) or the ecology of disgust (endoparasites) framework. We tested the hypothesis that NCEs of parasite exposure (e.g., parasite avoidance and defense) trade off with other important behaviours such as feeding and resting. We predicted that when exposed to parasites (without infection), hosts will increase their defensive behaviors at the expense of feeding. We also posited that history of exposure (without infection), or previous infection would impact the expression of these NCEs. The study system involves a cactophilic fruit fly (Drosophila nigrospiracula) and a naturally occurring parasitic mite (Macrocheles subbadius). First, we assessed how prior mite exposure affected fly behaviour in response to current parasite exposure. Mite presence resulted in increased grooming and movement, but exposure history did not affect these behaviours. However, the interaction between previous and current exposure influenced host feeding and resting behaviours. We found that previously exposed flies increased feeding and decreased resting upon a secondary mite exposure. In a second experiment, we tested the role of infection history on current parasite exposure. Compared with naïve flies, previously infected flies were expected to increase defensive behaviours upon secondary exposure. Flies increased defensive and ambulatory behaviour in the presence of mites, and consequently less time was spent resting but feeding was unaffected. None of the behaviours measured were affected by previous infection status. In general, current parasite exposure resulted in NCEs. Moreover, our results showed that previous exposure (without infection) to parasites may have an even stronger effect upon secondary exposure than infection history. Our study highlights the importance of the ecology of fear and the role that exposure and infection history plays in generating NCEs of parasitism.

Surveillance of Sarcoptic Mange in Iberian Ibexes (Capra pyrenaica) and Domestic Goats (Capra hircus) in Southern Spain.

Sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious skin disease caused by Sarcoptes scabiei. Sera were collected from 411 Iberian ibexes, comprising 157 individuals with sarcoptic mange skin lesions and 254 clinically healthy animals, in 13 population nuclei across Andalusia (southern Spain) between 2015 and 2021. Skin samples from 88 of the 157 animals with mange-compatible lesions were also obtained. Moreover, 392 serum samples from domestic goats (Capra hircus) were collected in the same region and study period. Antibodies against S. scabiei were tested using an in-house indirect ELISA, while the presence of mites of S. scabiei was evaluated in the skin samples by potassium hydroxide digestion. Seropositivity was found in eight (3.1%) of the clinically healthy ibexes and in 104 (66.2%) of the animals with mange-compatible lesions. The presence of S. scabiei was confirmed in 57 (64.8%) out of the 88 skin samples analysed and anti-S. scabiei antibodies were found in 49 (86.0%) of these 57 mite-positive individuals. Seropositive animals were detected in population nuclei with previous records of sarcoptic mange, where S. scabiei mites were detected by potassium hydroxide digestion in individuals with sarcoptic mange-compatible external lesions. However, seropositivity was not observed in population nuclei that were historically free of this disease. None of the 392 domestic goats had antibodies against S. scabiei, suggesting an independent epidemiological cycle of sarcoptic mange in Iberian ibex populations in the study area, and a limited or null role of domestic goats in the transmission of the parasite to this wild species. Overall, our findings underscore the importance of maintaining and/or implementing integrated surveillance programs and control strategies in wildlife and livestock, to limit the risk of S. scabiei circulation in Iberian ibex populations.

Quantitative identification and sensor sensitivity analysis in detection of odor volatile compounds emitted by scaly grain mites, Suidasia pontifica Oudemans.

In Thailand, the scaly grain mite, Suidasia pontifica Oudemans, impacts the feed industry by emitting a lemongrass-like odor in contaminated feed, reducing its palatability. This study focused on identifying volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with this odor in contaminated chicken feeds and ground maize, as well as individual mites using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). We explored the relationship between VOC concentration and mite population size in chicken feed cultures, aiming to detect minimal mite presence through regression models. Additionally, we tested the sensitivity of nine electronic odor sensors in detecting these VOCs. Our results showed Z-citral and E-citral present in mite-contaminated ground maize, chicken feeds, but absent in uncontaminated samples. Mite populations in chicken feed followed a normal distribution, increasing rapidly, peaking, and then declining, a pattern mirrored in the concentrations of Z-citral and E-citral. Simple linear regression models confirmed a positive correlation between mite density and citral concentrations. Polynomial regression models indicated Z-citral is detectable at mite densities over 67 individuals per gram and E-citral over 3.89 individuals per gram. Odor sensors showed varying readings across different citral concentrations, uncontaminated, and mite-infested chicken feeds. Our study confirms that S. pontifica are responsible for the lemongrass-like odor in infested samples, due to Z-citral and E-citral. The citral concentrations increase with mite population growth and are detectable at low mite densities, suggesting their effectiveness as biomarkers for early mite infestation detection. Additionally, MQ series odor sensors detected these VOCs, indicating their potential for monitoring mite infestations in storage environments. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Pathomorphosis of eyelid tumor pathology in demodectic infection

Background. Pathological changes in the tissues of the oculo-conjunctival region caused by the activity of the Demodex mite is represented by the development of inflammatory process. On detection of the parasite on eyelashes, the presence of the Demodex mite is diagnosed in half of adult patients seeking ophthalmic care. Pathomorphological descriptions of specific patterns associated with the presence of Demodex infection are practically absent. During pathological examination, in the vast majority of cases it is almost impossible to see the parasite in the test material. There are pathomorphological patterns associated with the presence of the mite as a commensal, not only on the eyelid surface or in the conjunctiva, but also in morphological structures formed against the background of pathological processes in this area. Aim. To find out the morphological patterns reflecting the pathomorphosis of some tumor processes in the eyelid thickness caused by demodectic invasion, which have not been identified so far in ophthalmopathological studies. Materials and Methods. We analyzed the archival material from the oculo-conjunctival region submitted to the ocular pathology laboratory within the period of 2020–2023. Surgical and biopsy specimens were processed by standard histologic methods. Results. One of the pathognomonic patterns of demodecosis are calcifications with fragments of the dead mite and cysts. When a mite rapidly destroys tissue, it leaves the site until it dies without retaining its fragments. Post-demodecosis pathomorphosis in basal cell carcinoma of the eyelids complicates the pathomorphologic diagnosis of the biopsy. Conclusions. Our results prove the presence of mites in tumor tissues and illustrate their influence on the development of the pathomorphological picture, which should be taken into account in the practical activity of a pathologist. Keywords: demodex mite, pathomorphology, ophthalmopathological examination, oculo-conjunctival region.

Primeiro registro de infestação por Leporacarus gibbus em coelhos domésticos (Oryctolagus cuniculus) no sul do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Leporacarus gibbus is an ectoparasite of rabbits, in which infestation is usually subclinical and can, sometimes, be underdiagnosed. This case report presents a symptomatic infestation by L. gibbus in rabbits, for the first time, at southern Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Forty-four rabbits from a vivarium in the city of Capão do Leão, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, were evaluated. Dermatitis and alopecia were observed on the hind legs, neck, and back of the animals. External inspection revealed the presence of ectoparasites. Skin scraping, adhesive tape impression, and hair plucking were performed for diagnosis. However, only after stereomicroscopic examination of the coat, the presence of mites was revealed. The specimens were clarified in phenol/xylene and mounted in a non-permanent preparation. After light microscopic evaluation, the specimens were taxonomically classified as L. gibbus. Ivermectin treatment was applied, with 100% efficacy after 7 days. This report describes, for the first time, a case of L. gibbus infestation in domestic rabbits in the region, with dermatological manifestation.

Efficacy of Oral Sarolaner in Canine Demodicosis

Dogs presented to small animal dermatology unit of Veterinary Clinical Complex, Rajendranagar with a comprehensive history of widespread itching, alopecia, thickened skin, skin discoloration, formation of scales and crusts with normal deworming and vaccination status were taken for the study. Clinical examination was carried out and dogs having signs of lichenified skin, alopecia, erythema, papules, comedones, as well as the presence of Demodex mite on skin scrapping were included in the study. these dogs were treated by randomly dividing them into two groups, viz., group I (n=28) treated with tab. ivermectin (400 mcg/kg, PO, SID) until two successive negative scrapings and group II (n=28) treated with tab. Sarolaner, an iso oxazoline-class parasiticide administered orally at a dosage of 2 mg/kg once a month. Mites were counted once in 15 days in both groups. Parasitological cure in group I was 60.71, 78.57 and 92.85 percent respectively, in subsequent months, whereas in group II 67.85 and 100 percent respectively, after the first and second month of therapy. Remarkably, the dogs of group II exhibited complete clinical recovery by the second month of treatment without any relapse. Additionally, all the dogs were also managed with chlorhexidine shampoo bath weekly once and immune-boosting syrup once a day.

Measurement of Fitness and Predatory Ability of Four Predatory Mite Species in Tibetan Plateau under Laboratory Conditions.

Predatory mites are biological control agents used in many countries against various vegetable pests, particularly spider mites. Despite the significant presence of predatory mites in the Tibetan plateau, there is limited research on their potential against spider mites in the area. This study investigated the fitness parameters and performance against TSSM of four predatory, including Amblyseius swirskii (Athias-Henriot) and three species from the genus Neoseiulus (Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor), Neoseiulus barkeri (Hughes), and Neoseiulus cucumeris (Oudemans)), originally collected from fields in the Tibetan Plateau. Compared to the other three predatory species, A. swirskii exhibited the highest fecundity (11.60 ± 0.34) and the highest pre-adult survival rate (83.33 ± 3.33%). Since their juvenile survival rate (SR) was extremely low (13.33% ± 5.77%), most N. barkeri nymphs died before emergence. Compared to the other three predatory mites, A. swirskii showed the highest predation capacity against adult TSSMs at 15 d post-release (14.28 ± 2.24). Based on the results, A. swirskii was the most effective, and N. barkeri was the least effective in controlling two-spotted mites in the Tibetan Plateau among the four species tested in this study. Collectively, these findings imply notable advantages in employing A. swirskii for controlling two-spotted mites in the Tibetan Plateau. This study informs the development of a feasible biological control method based on suitable predatory mite species to manage TSSMs in the Tibetan Plateau.

Effective treatment of sarcoptic mange in an alpaca (Vicugna pacos) using fluralaner: a case report

South American Camelids, including alpacas, have gained popularity in Europe as pets and prized wool sources. Skin health concerns, particularly mite infestations, have emerged as a notable problem in these animals. Sarcoptic mange can lead to severe itching, papules, and chronic symptoms such as alopecia, crusts, and emaciation if left untreated. This case report documents a 2-year-old female alpaca suffering from sarcoptic mange. Despite initial treatment with ivermectin, its condition worsened, leading to severe weight loss, abortion, and a continued presence of mites. Considering the lack of effective treatments for sarcoptic mange in alpacas and the unavailability of registered drugs for this species in Italy, fluralaner, a drug previously used in other animal species, has been administered orally at a dosage of 5 mg/kg. Within a week after the treatment with fluralaner, the patient exhibited significant improvement, including the resolution of itching, healing of skin lesions, and an increase in appetite. Follow-up skin scrapings confirmed the absence of mites, and the patient’s condition continued to improve. Fluralaner demonstrated to be a highly effective and fast-acting treatment for sarcoptic mange in alpacas, offering potential economic benefits attributed to its single-dose administration.

Herbivore-induced plant volatiles emitted by citrus in response to spider mite infestation can attract predatory mites.

Understanding the nutritional interplay among plants, pests, and natural enemies is essential for sustainable pest management. Enhancing the efficiency of natural enemies, such as Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) is critical, and exploiting herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) offers a promising approach. However, N. californicus has rarely been reported to utilize HIPVs to improve their biological control capabilities. Our research revealed a significant difference in the diversity of volatile compounds detected in clean Citrus reticulata Blanco leaves compared to those in C. reticulata leaves infested with Panonychus citri (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranychidae), regardless of mite presence. This suggests that P. citri infestation induces a wide array of HIPVs in C. reticulata leaves. We conducted olfactory behavioral assays to evaluate the response of N. californicus to synthetic HIPVs. Results revealed that linalool (1.00 mg/mL), 2,2,4-trimethylpentane (10.0 mg/mL), undecylcyclohexane (1.00 mg/mL), and (+)-dibenzoyl-L-tartaric anhydride (10.0 mg/mL) significantly attracted N. californicus while pentadecanal (1.00 mg/mL) significantly deterred it. A 3-component blend of linalool, undecylcyclohexane, and (+)-dibenzoyl-L-tartaric anhydride was better than other combinations in attracting N. californicus. This combination provided the basis for developing an attractant for N. californicus, facilitating the rate of its dispersal to enhance its biological control of pests. Consequently, this research offers vital insights into improving the sustainable pest control potential of predatory mites.

First Record of Phoretic Mite from Red Palm Weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugiuneus (Olivier,1790) from Basrah, Southern Iraq

The red palm weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier, 1790), which belongs to the family Curculionidae, order Coleoptera, is one of the most important palm pests, which leads to heavy losses in date palms. In the last few years, it has been recorded in Iraq, from Safwan city south of Iraq, where it was detected on date palm trees (Phoenix dactylifera L, Arecales: Arecaceae). In the current study, specimens of adult weevils were collected from infested date palms (Phoenix dactylifera), that showed signs of infection in Safwan district, south of Basra province. The results of the investigation showed the presence of phoretic mites associated with the red palm weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier, 1790). Two genera of Uropodid mites, deutonymph, were attached by anal pedicel to body parts of adult red palm weevils. They were collected and identified as Centrouropoda (Uropodidae), and Uroovbovella (Urodinychidae), according to accurate taxonomic keys. The differentiation between two genera of mites was studied. The deutonymphs were examined and photographed by an AM Scop camera installed on a light microscope, and the insects were photographed by a LEICA microscope. The infestation symptoms were illustrated with pictures.

Effects of Season, Habitat, and Host Characteristics on Ectoparasites of Wild Rodents in a Mosaic Rural Landscape.

Despite the large number of studies on rodent ectoparasites-most of them vectors of epidemiologically important pathogens-infestation patterns remain poorly understood in various ecological contexts, such as the highly patchy agricultural landscapes. We aimed to relate the infestation of rodents to temporal, habitat, and host variables. We assessed the difference in parasite prevalence and mean abundance depending on host sex, age, and body weight, season, and land use intensity. Furthermore, we analysed the effect of host species abundance and the differential responses of parasites in main and minor host species. The field survey was conducted in a rural landscape in southern Transylvania (Romania) between June and September 2010-2011. We live-trapped small mammals, collected the ticks and fleas, and recorded the presence of lice and mites. Overall, we found the same infestation patterns largely reported in the literature: higher prevalence and mean abundance in heavier adult males, significant seasonality and differences among host species, and evidence of the dilution effect. The uniqueness of our study system was the negative effect of the land use intensity on the prevalence and mean abundance of parasites, explained by the highly patchy mosaic landscape.

Da li je nošenje zaštitnih maski tokom pandemije moglo stvoriti okruženje pogodno za Demodex grinja?

Abstract: Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, wearing face masks became mandatory in our country to prevent the spread of the virus, as in many other countries. Objective: The study aimed to examine whether wearing face masks during the pandemic created a microenvironment for Demodex mites. Materials and Methods: The study included three groups: (i) those who wore N95/FFP2 masks, (ii) those who wore a 3-ply surgical mask, and (iii) a control group (who rarely wore masks). The age, gender, occupation, smoking status, alcohol consumption, past medical history, and face-washing habits were questioned, and dermatological examination was performed. The presence of Demodex mites was detected by the standard superficial skin biopsy (SSSB) from three regions of the face. Results: Sociodemographic characteristics and the findings of dermatological examination of the three groups were similar (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference across the groups concerning the presence of Demodex mites in corresponding regions (the right cheek, nose, forehead) and corresponding numbers of Demodex mites (> 5 D/cm2); the total number of Demodex mites in each region; presence of Demodex mites in any area on the face, number of Demodex mites in any region > 5 D/cm2 on the face, the total number of Demodex mites found on the face, and the presence of Demodex mites in the areas under the mask (the nose and the right cheek together) (p > 0.05). Conclusion: We can conclude that wearing masks by healthy adults with no known skin diseases during the pandemic does not create a proper microenvironment for the lives of Demodex mites.

Epidemiology of sarcoptic mange in free-ranging vicuñas (Vicugna vicugna): a cross-sectional study in Andean highland communities in Peru.

Sarcoptic mange or scabies is a contagious parasitic skin disease that affects a wide range of domestic and wildlife species. A cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the prevalence, molecular identification, and characteristics of sarcoptic mange in vicuñas. A total of 3,274 vicuñas were examined. Following ritual harvesting events ("chaccus") in 13 Andean communities. The presence of mange mites was determined by the skin scraping technique and confirmed by PCR analysis using specific primers for the ITS2 gene of Sarcoptes scabiei. The presence of mange mites was also confirmed by microscopy using samples taken from wallows. A data collection form was used to register the characteristics of the vicuñas sampled. The prevalence of sarcoptic mange was 4.9% (95% CI: 4.1 - 5.6%). All samples from wallows tested positive (9/9). Importantly, the presence of the species S. scabiei was molecularly confirmed. Adult females with regular body condition were more susceptible to sarcoptic mange, although the lesions were mild. This study confirms the presence of S. scabiei in semi-captive vicuñas and points to the possible role of wallows in the dissemination of Sarcoptes mites.