Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101166
Russell Q-Y. Yong , Olena Kudlai , Anja Vermaak , Nico J. Smit
Novel records of marine fish-infecting blood flukes (Aporocotylidae Odhner, 1912) were obtained from several locations across the South African coastline. These constitute the first records of aporocotylid flukes from the region. A new genus, Paraskoulekia, is proposed for two new species of aporocotylids found in the hearts of Hottentot seabream, Pachymetopon blochii (Valenciennes) and bronze seabream, Pachymetopon grande Günther (Sparidae). The two species show close morphological affinities to the sparid-infecting genus Skoulekia Alama-Bermejo, Montero, Raga & Holzer, 2011 and are phylogenetically sister to species of that genus, but are genetically distant from them and differ in key aspects of morphology, namely in having a medially-positioned ovary, the uterine coils not lateral or anterior to the ovary and the cirrus-sac being posterior or at least lateral to the rest of the genitalia. Cardicola mediterraneus Palacios-Abella, Montero, Merella, Mele, Raga & Repullés-Albelda, 2021 is reported from the heart of zebra seabream, Diplodus hottentotus (Smith) (Sparidae), and Skoulekia meningialis Alama-Bermejo, Montero, Raga & Holzer, 2011 from the eyes of musselcracker seabream, Sparodon durbanensis (Castelnau) (Sparidae), marking the first time these species have been reported outside the western Mediterranean Sea. In addition, a species of Deontacylix Linton, 1910) is recorded from blue seachub, Kyphosus cinerascens (Forsskål) (Kyphosidae) and is contextualised within the global understanding of species of that genus.
{"title":"Fish blood flukes (digenea: Aporocotylidae) from marine fishes of South Africa, including proposal of a new genus","authors":"Russell Q-Y. Yong , Olena Kudlai , Anja Vermaak , Nico J. Smit","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101166","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101166","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Novel records of marine fish-infecting blood flukes (Aporocotylidae Odhner, 1912) were obtained from several locations across the South African coastline. These constitute the first records of aporocotylid flukes from the region. A new genus, <em>Paraskoulekia</em>, is proposed for two new species of aporocotylids found in the hearts of Hottentot seabream, <em>Pachymetopon blochii</em> (Valenciennes) and bronze seabream, <em>Pachymetopon grande</em> Günther (Sparidae). The two species show close morphological affinities to the sparid-infecting genus <em>Skoulekia</em> Alama-Bermejo, Montero, Raga & Holzer, 2011 and are phylogenetically sister to species of that genus, but are genetically distant from them and differ in key aspects of morphology, namely in having a medially-positioned ovary, the uterine coils not lateral or anterior to the ovary and the cirrus-sac being posterior or at least lateral to the rest of the genitalia. <em>Cardicola mediterraneus</em> Palacios-Abella, Montero, Merella, Mele, Raga & Repullés-Albelda, 2021 is reported from the heart of zebra seabream, <em>Diplodus hottentotus</em> (Smith) (Sparidae), and <em>Skoulekia meningialis</em> Alama-Bermejo, Montero, Raga & Holzer, 2011 from the eyes of musselcracker seabream, <em>Sparodon durbanensis</em> (Castelnau) (Sparidae), marking the first time these species have been reported outside the western Mediterranean Sea. In addition, a species of <em>Deontacylix</em> Linton, 1910) is recorded from blue seachub, <em>Kyphosus cinerascens</em> (Forsskål) (Kyphosidae) and is contextualised within the global understanding of species of that genus.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101166"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145684225","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101172
Renata Fernandes-Santos , Jessica Whinfield , Mariel Fulham , Gilad Bino , Tahneal Hawke , Rebecca Vaughan-Higgins , Larry Vogelnest , Kristin S. Warren , Michelle Power
The platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is a unique monotreme endemic to eastern Australia, yet little is known about the prevalence and impact of protozoan infections in wild populations. This study investigated the occurrence of protozoan parasites and associated health parameters in wild platypuses from New South Wales (NSW), Australia, with a focus on seasonal variation and demographic risk factors. A total of 90 sampling events (79 individuals and 11 recaptures) yielded 72 blood and 81 faecal samples for parasitological screening through targeted molecular techniques. Theileria ornithorhynchi was detected in 100 % of blood samples (95 % CI: 95.01–100), confirming its widespread distribution and high prevalence in NSW platypuses. Trypanosoma spp. were identified in 40.3 % of blood samples (95 % CI: 28.88–52.50), and sequencing confirmed the presence of Trypanosoma binneyi, reported here for the first time in NSW. Toxoplasma gondii was detected in one sub-adult male (1.39 %, 95 % CI: 0.04–7.50). No blood samples tested positive for Plasmodium spp. (0 %, 95 % CI: 0–4.99). In addition, all faecal samples tested negative for Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia sp. (0 %, 95 % CI: 0–4.45). Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) analysis identified season as the primary risk factor for Tr. binneyi infection (RI 89.5 %), with higher prevalence in summer. Males were also at increased risk (RI 10.5 %), while age class and location (river catchment) had no measurable influence. Season also significantly affected physiological parameters, including tail volume index (TVI) and packed cell volume (PCV). These findings expand the known distribution of protozoan parasites and provide new insights into the seasonal dynamics of parasitic infections in wild platypuses. This study contributes to the understanding of platypus health ecology and highlights the importance of long-term, seasonally informed monitoring programs.
{"title":"Targeted molecular screening for protozoan parasites in wild platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) and associated risk factors for infection","authors":"Renata Fernandes-Santos , Jessica Whinfield , Mariel Fulham , Gilad Bino , Tahneal Hawke , Rebecca Vaughan-Higgins , Larry Vogelnest , Kristin S. Warren , Michelle Power","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101172","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101172","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The platypus (<em>Ornithorhynchus anatinus</em>) is a unique monotreme endemic to eastern Australia, yet little is known about the prevalence and impact of protozoan infections in wild populations. This study investigated the occurrence of protozoan parasites and associated health parameters in wild platypuses from New South Wales (NSW), Australia, with a focus on seasonal variation and demographic risk factors. A total of 90 sampling events (79 individuals and 11 recaptures) yielded 72 blood and 81 faecal samples for parasitological screening through targeted molecular techniques. <em>Theileria ornithorhynchi</em> was detected in 100 % of blood samples (95 % CI: 95.01–100), confirming its widespread distribution and high prevalence in NSW platypuses. <em>Trypanosoma</em> spp. were identified in 40.3 % of blood samples (95 % CI: 28.88–52.50), and sequencing confirmed the presence of <em>Trypanosoma binneyi</em>, reported here for the first time in NSW. <em>Toxoplasma gondii</em> was detected in one sub-adult male (1.39 %, 95 % CI: 0.04–7.50). No blood samples tested positive for <em>Plasmodium</em> spp. (0 %, 95 % CI: 0–4.99). In addition, all faecal samples tested negative for <em>Cryptosporidium</em> spp. and <em>Giardia</em> sp. (0 %, 95 % CI: 0–4.45). Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) analysis identified season as the primary risk factor for <em>Tr. binneyi</em> infection (RI 89.5 %), with higher prevalence in summer. Males were also at increased risk (RI 10.5 %), while age class and location (river catchment) had no measurable influence. Season also significantly affected physiological parameters, including tail volume index (TVI) and packed cell volume (PCV). These findings expand the known distribution of protozoan parasites and provide new insights into the seasonal dynamics of parasitic infections in wild platypuses. This study contributes to the understanding of platypus health ecology and highlights the importance of long-term, seasonally informed monitoring programs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101172"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145684227","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101160
Shokoofeh Shamsi, Diane P. Barton
There is growing recognition that excluding parasites from ecological and behavioural studies is a significant oversight, given their crucial roles in host health, energy allocation, and ecosystem function. Yet, the parasitic fauna of the great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias), a globally distributed apex predator, remains poorly understood. This review consolidates current knowledge of parasites infecting the great white shark and explores their potential ecological and physiological impacts. A synthesis of published literature and selected museum records revealed 116 parasite records, predominantly cestodes and copepods, with almost all studies being taxonomic in focus. Cestodes, known for their high reproductive output and metabolic demands, may influence growth, reproduction, and energy allocation, in their host, including great white sharks. Additionally, given that great white sharks acquire cestodes via prey infected with larval or infectious stages, parasite-induced changes in prey behaviour or vulnerability could bias dietary studies, an aspect largely overlooked in great white shark trophic ecology. Copepods, another frequently reported group, are known to cause tissue damage, respiratory inefficiency, and erratic swimming in fish, often requiring veterinary intervention in aquaculture. In sharks, behaviours such as breaching and tail-slapping have been speculatively linked to parasite removal, yet these assumptions overlook copepod biology and attachment mechanisms. Unsubstantiated interpretations risk perpetuating misconceptions and may hinder integration of parasitology into shark conservation strategies. This review also highlights critical knowledge gaps. For instance, several prey species consumed by great white sharks are known intermediate hosts of Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite capable of altering host behaviour and transmitting between intermediate hosts. Although unprovoked aggression has occasionally been reported in sharks, there are currently no data on the presence or potential effects of T. gondii in these apex predators as a potential intermediate/paratenic host. Clarifying such potential associations, alongside neglected areas such as embryonic infections (e.g., trebiid copepods), remains an important direction for future research. By identifying these critical knowledge gaps, we advocate for the integration of parasitological research into ecological and conservation frameworks to better understand apex predator health and ensure marine biodiversity protection.
{"title":"How much do we know about the parasites of great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) and why they matter?","authors":"Shokoofeh Shamsi, Diane P. Barton","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101160","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101160","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>There is growing recognition that excluding parasites from ecological and behavioural studies is a significant oversight, given their crucial roles in host health, energy allocation, and ecosystem function. Yet, the parasitic fauna of the great white shark (<em>Carcharodon carcharias</em>), a globally distributed apex predator, remains poorly understood. This review consolidates current knowledge of parasites infecting the great white shark and explores their potential ecological and physiological impacts. A synthesis of published literature and selected museum records revealed 116 parasite records, predominantly cestodes and copepods, with almost all studies being taxonomic in focus. Cestodes, known for their high reproductive output and metabolic demands, may influence growth, reproduction, and energy allocation, in their host, including great white sharks. Additionally, given that great white sharks acquire cestodes via prey infected with larval or infectious stages, parasite-induced changes in prey behaviour or vulnerability could bias dietary studies, an aspect largely overlooked in great white shark trophic ecology. Copepods, another frequently reported group, are known to cause tissue damage, respiratory inefficiency, and erratic swimming in fish, often requiring veterinary intervention in aquaculture. In sharks, behaviours such as breaching and tail-slapping have been speculatively linked to parasite removal, yet these assumptions overlook copepod biology and attachment mechanisms. Unsubstantiated interpretations risk perpetuating misconceptions and may hinder integration of parasitology into shark conservation strategies. This review also highlights critical knowledge gaps. For instance, several prey species consumed by great white sharks are known intermediate hosts of <em>Toxoplasma gondii</em>, a parasite capable of altering host behaviour and transmitting between intermediate hosts. Although unprovoked aggression has occasionally been reported in sharks, there are currently no data on the presence or potential effects of <em>T. gondii</em> in these apex predators as a potential intermediate/paratenic host. Clarifying such potential associations, alongside neglected areas such as embryonic infections (e.g., trebiid copepods), remains an important direction for future research. By identifying these critical knowledge gaps, we advocate for the integration of parasitological research into ecological and conservation frameworks to better understand apex predator health and ensure marine biodiversity protection.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101160"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145684226","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101171
Yin Fu , Pitambar Dhakal , Zi Yan , Mengyao Yang , Chaofeng Ma , Yayun Wu , Jiahui Wang , Qinglin Wang , Longxian Zhang
Small wild mammals are major carriers of ticks in the field, yet their tick-carrying status in China remains inadequately studied. To access tick infestations on small mammals, we collected 1908 ticks from 267 rodents, 27 hedgehogs and 4 hog badgers in the northern foot of Dabie Mountain, China. We identified five tick species including: Haemaphysalis hystricis, H. flava, H. longicornis, Ixodes granulatus, and Amblyomma testudinarium. Notably, this represents the first recorded occurrence of H. hystricis, I. granulatus, and A. testudinarium in the study region, expanding their known geographical distribution, which can serve as evidence of its expansion towards the north China. The tick species exhibited distinct seasonal activity patterns: Adult H. hystricis demonstrated activity from June to August (July peak), the larval and nymphal were present from March through December, peaking in October and September separately. For H. flava, adults were found from April to September (August peak), while nymphs were recorded in May, July, and September (September peak), and Larvae were detected exclusively in July. Adult H. longicornis peaked in July (May–September). Adult I. granulatus were present from June to October (June peak), and nymphal appeared in March, October, and November (November peak), with larval restricted to March and November. The nymphal of A. testudinarium were collected during June and August (August peak). Ticks showed clear host preferences: The larvae and nymphs of H. hystricis exclusively infested rodents (particularly Niviventer and Rattus), while adults primarily parasitized hog badgers. Both H. longicornis and H. flava infested mainly burdens on hedgehogs. Moreover, the I. granulatus, and A. testudinarium only in rodents and hedgehogs separately. The study reminds us that ticks may be more widely distributed in Chinese wildlife, therefore, more attention needs to be paid to ticks on wild animals in the future.
{"title":"Tick species diversity, seasonality and feeding behavior in small wild mammals in the northern foothills of the Dabie Mountains, China","authors":"Yin Fu , Pitambar Dhakal , Zi Yan , Mengyao Yang , Chaofeng Ma , Yayun Wu , Jiahui Wang , Qinglin Wang , Longxian Zhang","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101171","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101171","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Small wild mammals are major carriers of ticks in the field, yet their tick-carrying status in China remains inadequately studied. To access tick infestations on small mammals, we collected 1908 ticks from 267 rodents, 27 hedgehogs and 4 hog badgers in the northern foot of Dabie Mountain, China. We identified five tick species including: <em>Haemaphysalis hystricis</em>, <em>H. flava</em>, <em>H</em>. <em>longicornis</em>, <em>Ixodes granulatus</em>, and <em>Amblyomma testudinarium</em>. Notably, this represents the first recorded occurrence of <em>H. hystricis</em>, <em>I. granulatus</em>, and <em>A. testudinarium</em> in the study region, expanding their known geographical distribution, which can serve as evidence of its expansion towards the north China. The tick species exhibited distinct seasonal activity patterns: Adult <em>H</em>. <em>hystricis</em> demonstrated activity from June to August (July peak), the larval and nymphal were present from March through December, peaking in October and September separately. For <em>H. flava</em>, adults were found from April to September (August peak), while nymphs were recorded in May, July, and September (September peak), and Larvae were detected exclusively in July. Adult <em>H. longicornis</em> peaked in July (May–September). Adult <em>I. granulatus</em> were present from June to October (June peak), and nymphal appeared in March, October, and November (November peak), with larval restricted to March and November. The nymphal of <em>A. testudinarium</em> were collected during June and August (August peak). Ticks showed clear host preferences: The larvae and nymphs of <em>H. hystricis</em> exclusively infested rodents (particularly <em>Niviventer</em> and <em>Rattus</em>), while adults primarily parasitized hog badgers. Both <em>H. longicornis</em> and <em>H. flava</em> infested mainly burdens on hedgehogs. Moreover, the <em>I. granulatus</em>, and <em>A. testudinarium</em> only in rodents and hedgehogs separately. The study reminds us that ticks may be more widely distributed in Chinese wildlife, therefore, more attention needs to be paid to ticks on wild animals in the future.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101171"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145617140","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101161
Adrienn Gréta Tóth , Attila Bende , Sándor Hornok , Zsombor Wagenhoffer , Balázs Szulyovszky , Viktória Galla , Petra Vöröskői , Gergő Keve
Lipoptena fortisetosa is a louse fly of East Asian origin that is considered a potential vector of several pathogenic bacteria and is most commonly associated with deer (Cervidae). The species has been detected in multiple countries in Europe; however, its exact distribution range is unknown. A single individual was detected on a dog at a veterinary clinic in Budapest, Hungary, where the presence of this species had not been confirmed previously. After acquiring information regarding the recent whereabouts of the dog, targeted louse fly collection with insect nets was performed in a forest in Central Transdanubia. Of the 30 flying, unfed specimens of Lipoptena spp., 23 were morphologically identified as L. fortisetosa. Following this, louse fly collections have been conducted across Hungary during the fall of 2025, including the collection of two additional specimens from a dog. According to these results, L. fortisetosa is established in several regions of the country, and this parasite can be effectively transported by dogs. The molecular analyses further confirmed the results, and the distinction between L. fortisetosa and Lipoptena cervi. The findings draw attention to the potential medical and veterinary significance of the emergence of novel vectors that may have been introduced through animal transport.
{"title":"Reports of Lipoptena fortisetosa on dogs and in the environment, and evidence of its widespread establishment in Hungary","authors":"Adrienn Gréta Tóth , Attila Bende , Sándor Hornok , Zsombor Wagenhoffer , Balázs Szulyovszky , Viktória Galla , Petra Vöröskői , Gergő Keve","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101161","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101161","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Lipoptena fortisetosa</em> is a louse fly of East Asian origin that is considered a potential vector of several pathogenic bacteria and is most commonly associated with deer (Cervidae). The species has been detected in multiple countries in Europe; however, its exact distribution range is unknown. A single individual was detected on a dog at a veterinary clinic in Budapest, Hungary, where the presence of this species had not been confirmed previously. After acquiring information regarding the recent whereabouts of the dog, targeted louse fly collection with insect nets was performed in a forest in Central Transdanubia. Of the 30 flying, unfed specimens of <em>Lipoptena</em> spp., 23 were morphologically identified as <em>L</em>. <em>fortisetosa.</em> Following this, louse fly collections have been conducted across Hungary during the fall of 2025, including the collection of two additional specimens from a dog. According to these results, <em>L. fortisetosa</em> is established in several regions of the country, and this parasite can be effectively transported by dogs. The molecular analyses further confirmed the results, and the distinction between <em>L. fortisetosa</em> and <em>Lipoptena cervi.</em> The findings draw attention to the potential medical and veterinary significance of the emergence of novel vectors that may have been introduced through animal transport.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101161"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145617135","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mohamed-Djawad et al. (2025) provided an insightful eco-epidemiological analysis of gastrointestinal parasites in captive and semi-captive chimpanzees in Gabon, revealing important associations with abiotic factors and host traits. Here, we offer critical reflections on methodological aspects, suggest molecular approaches for zoonotic risk assessment, and raise questions regarding sampling design and behavioural ecology interpretations. Integration of quantitative parasitology, molecular diagnostics, and behavioural data could deepen understanding of parasite transmission dynamics, inform One Health surveillance, and enhance both chimpanzee welfare management and zoonotic disease prevention strategies.
{"title":"Comment on “Eco-epidemiology of gastrointestinal parasitic infections in captive chimpanzees in Gabon” by Mohamed-Djawad et al. (2025)","authors":"Nathkapach Kaewpitoon Rattanapitoon , Natthawut Charoenphon , Khristine Laguador Sandoval , Schawanya Kaewpitoon Rattanapitoon","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101127","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101127","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Mohamed-Djawad et al. (2025) provided an insightful eco-epidemiological analysis of gastrointestinal parasites in captive and semi-captive chimpanzees in Gabon, revealing important associations with abiotic factors and host traits. Here, we offer critical reflections on methodological aspects, suggest molecular approaches for zoonotic risk assessment, and raise questions regarding sampling design and behavioural ecology interpretations. Integration of quantitative parasitology, molecular diagnostics, and behavioural data could deepen understanding of parasite transmission dynamics, inform One Health surveillance, and enhance both chimpanzee welfare management and zoonotic disease prevention strategies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101127"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145736698","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101167
Melanie R. Wells , Scott Carver , Ralph Eric Thijl Vanstreels , Annie Philips , Mary-Anne Lea , Michelle Power
Parasitism poses potential health risks to penguin populations, yet the prevalence of protozoan parasites in wild free-living populations remains poorly understood. We conducted a survey of haemoprotozoa and Toxoplasma gondii in little penguins (Eudyptula minor) across 23 colonies in Lutruwita/Tasmania, Australia. Blood samples were screened for haemoprotozoa using light microscopy and nested PCR. Suspect intraerythrocytic inclusions were seen in the blood smears of 25 % of the penguins examined (62/247), but morphological and molecular evidence only confirmed Babesia sp. infection in 2.4 % of penguins (6/247). A single blood smear exhibited sufficient parasite life stages to allow morphological identification, and the morphology was consistent with Babesia peircei. Sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene of 4 samples confirmed a close relationship to Babesia sp. previously reported in little penguins in Lutruwita/Tasmania. A subset of samples (n = 50) with intraerythrocytic inclusions tested negative for Haemoproteus sp., Leucocytozoon sp., and Plasmodium sp. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected in 3/122 penguins, though only one sample (0.8 %) was considered seropositive (titre ≤1:64). This study provides a contemporary baseline for protozoan parasite occurrence in wild little penguins at the southernmost part of their Australian range. As changing climates are facilitating range expansion of vector species, studying the health of populations at the edge of their range is critical.
{"title":"Survey of haemoprotozoa and Toxoplasma gondii in little penguins in Lutruwita/Tasmania, Australia","authors":"Melanie R. Wells , Scott Carver , Ralph Eric Thijl Vanstreels , Annie Philips , Mary-Anne Lea , Michelle Power","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101167","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101167","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Parasitism poses potential health risks to penguin populations, yet the prevalence of protozoan parasites in wild free-living populations remains poorly understood. We conducted a survey of haemoprotozoa and <em>Toxoplasma gondii</em> in little penguins (<em>Eudyptula minor</em>) across 23 colonies in Lutruwita/Tasmania, Australia. Blood samples were screened for haemoprotozoa using light microscopy and nested PCR. Suspect intraerythrocytic inclusions were seen in the blood smears of 25 % of the penguins examined (62/247), but morphological and molecular evidence only confirmed <em>Babesia</em> sp. infection in 2.4 % of penguins (6/247). A single blood smear exhibited sufficient parasite life stages to allow morphological identification, and the morphology was consistent with <em>Babesia peircei</em>. Sequencing of the <em>18S rRNA</em> gene of 4 samples confirmed a close relationship to <em>Babesia</em> sp. previously reported in little penguins in Lutruwita/Tasmania. A subset of samples (<em>n</em> = 50) with intraerythrocytic inclusions tested negative for <em>Haemoproteus</em> sp., <em>Leucocytozoon</em> sp., and <em>Plasmodium</em> sp. Antibodies against <em>T. gondii</em> were detected in 3/122 penguins, though only one sample (0.8 %) was considered seropositive (titre ≤1:64). This study provides a contemporary baseline for protozoan parasite occurrence in wild little penguins at the southernmost part of their Australian range. As changing climates are facilitating range expansion of vector species, studying the health of populations at the edge of their range is critical.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101167"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145617142","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101169
Alessandro Alvaro , Giulia Maria Cattaneo , Fabio Bigoni , Riccardo Molteni , Matilde Silvia Conconi , Domenico Otranto , Jairo Alfonso Mendoza-Roldan , Gentile Francesco Ficetola , Paolo Gabrieli , Claudio Bandi , Raoul Manenti , Sara Epis
Leishmania parasites are dixenous protozoans transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies and known to infect a range of vertebrate hosts, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. However, to date, there is only a single record for amphibians, in a toad (order Anura), based on molecular evidence. In this study, we present the first evidence supporting the potential of Leishmania to infect an amphibian host, the fire salamander (order Urodela), through combined molecular and morphological approaches. A total of 78 salamanders were sampled from a protected area in northern Italy. Single cells morphologically similar to Leishmania were observed in 4.48 % of Giemsa-stained blood smears. Leishmania-specific qPCR coupled with high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis detected parasite DNA in 7.14 % of blood samples and 12.12 % of cloacal swabs. Sanger sequencing of a qPCR-positive sample and phylogenetic analysis identified the parasite as Leishmania (Sauroleishmania) tarentolae. These findings may contribute to expand the known host range of Leishmania to include Urodelan amphibians, suggesting that these vertebrates may play an unrecognized role in the ecology and transmission dynamics of these parasites.
{"title":"Beyond reptiles: the fire salamander as a potential host for Leishmania (Sauroleishmania) tarentolae","authors":"Alessandro Alvaro , Giulia Maria Cattaneo , Fabio Bigoni , Riccardo Molteni , Matilde Silvia Conconi , Domenico Otranto , Jairo Alfonso Mendoza-Roldan , Gentile Francesco Ficetola , Paolo Gabrieli , Claudio Bandi , Raoul Manenti , Sara Epis","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101169","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101169","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Leishmania</em> parasites are dixenous protozoans transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies and known to infect a range of vertebrate hosts, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. However, to date, there is only a single record for amphibians, in a toad (order Anura), based on molecular evidence. In this study, we present the first evidence supporting the potential of <em>Leishmania</em> to infect an amphibian host, the fire salamander (order Urodela), through combined molecular and morphological approaches. A total of 78 salamanders were sampled from a protected area in northern Italy. Single cells morphologically similar to <em>Leishmania</em> were observed in 4.48 % of Giemsa-stained blood smears. <em>Leishmania</em>-specific qPCR coupled with high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis detected parasite DNA in 7.14 % of blood samples and 12.12 % of cloacal swabs. Sanger sequencing of a qPCR-positive sample and phylogenetic analysis identified the parasite <em>as Leishmania (Sauroleishmania) tarentolae</em>. These findings may contribute to expand the known host range of <em>Leishmania</em> to include Urodelan amphibians, suggesting that these vertebrates may play an unrecognized role in the ecology and transmission dynamics of these parasites.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101169"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145617136","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Infection of Dipetalonema species in Neotropical primates has been documented extensively. However, there is limited information on the molecular characterization of the genus Dipetalonema, specifically regarding the identification of co-infections. In this study, we report the co-infection of Dipetalonema gracile and D. freitasi in a captive squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) from a zoo in China and provide the first molecular characterization of D. freitasi. Morphological analysis identified thirteen adult worms, consisting of nine D. gracile and four D. freitasi. Phylogenetic analyses based on concatenated sequences of two nuclear (18S ribosomal RNA and 28S ribosomal RNA) and two mitochondrial (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and 12S ribosomal RNA) genes revealed that species of Dipetalonema sensu stricto form a monophyletic clade, divided into two highly supported subclades (DipA and DipB). The DipA clade includes D. robini, D. gracile, and D. graciliformis and is characterized by a sinuous vagina vera, whereas the DipB clade comprises D. yatesi, D. freitasi, and D. caudispina and exhibits a simple vagina vera. Evolutionary changes in the left spicule morphology suggest ancestral and derived states. This integrative approach enhances the understanding of Dipetalonema taxonomy and highlights the risk of parasitic infections in captive primates due to wildlife trade.
{"title":"Co-infection of Dipetalonema species (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) in a captive squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) from China: first molecular characterization of Dipetalonema freitasi","authors":"Peihang Hong , Sijia Yu , Tzu-Chun Chou , Hsin-Yu Lin , Tung Yee Shiu , Kwong-Chung Tung , Shyun Chou , Toshihiro Tokiwa","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101168","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101168","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Infection of <em>Dipetalonema</em> species in Neotropical primates has been documented extensively. However, there is limited information on the molecular characterization of the genus <em>Dipetalonema</em>, specifically regarding the identification of co-infections. In this study, we report the co-infection of <em>Dipetalonema gracile</em> and <em>D</em>. <em>freitasi</em> in a captive squirrel monkey (<em>Saimiri sciureus</em>) from a zoo in China and provide the first molecular characterization of <em>D. freitasi</em>. Morphological analysis identified thirteen adult worms, consisting of nine <em>D. gracile</em> and four <em>D. freitasi</em>. Phylogenetic analyses based on concatenated sequences of two nuclear (18S ribosomal RNA and 28S ribosomal RNA) and two mitochondrial (cytochrome <em>c</em> oxidase subunit I and 12S ribosomal RNA) genes revealed that species of <em>Dipetalonema</em> sensu stricto form a monophyletic clade, divided into two highly supported subclades (DipA and DipB). The DipA clade includes <em>D. robini</em>, <em>D. gracile</em>, and <em>D. graciliformis</em> and is characterized by a sinuous vagina vera, whereas the DipB clade comprises <em>D. yatesi</em>, <em>D. freitasi</em>, and <em>D. caudispina</em> and exhibits a simple vagina vera. Evolutionary changes in the left spicule morphology suggest ancestral and derived states. This integrative approach enhances the understanding of <em>Dipetalonema</em> taxonomy and highlights the risk of parasitic infections in captive primates due to wildlife trade.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101168"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145684216","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-11-18DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101162
Zoë Tess Lara Lindhorst , Manuela Theresa Frangl , Barbara Eigner , Bita Shahi Barogh , Georg Gerhard Duscher , Annette Schliephake , Wolfgang Gaede , Hans-Peter Fuehrer , Mike Heddergott
Vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) are becoming increasingly important in veterinary medicine and public health, with wildlife potentially playing a key role in their transmission. The objective of the current study was to investigate the occurrence of vector-borne pathogens in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes). Spleen samples from 277 legally hunted foxes were collected over a period of twelve months (May 2020 to April 2021) in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. VBPs were identified by performing PCR analysis on the samples, followed by Sanger sequencing, and a phylogenetic analysis was performed on Mycoplasma spp. A total of 94 % of the samples showed a positive result. The pathogens identified were Hepatozoon spp. (77 %), Babesia vulpes (68 %), Mycoplasma haemocanis (5 %), Mycoplasma spp. (5 %), Bartonella taylorii (1 %), Bartonella rochalimae (0.7 %), and Trypanosoma pestanai (0.4 %). None of the examined samples tested positive for filarioid helminths, Rickettsia spp., and Anaplasmataceae. This study highlights the role of foxes as reservoirs for pathogens that may affect domestic animals and humans, potentially contributing to the spread of these pathogens through shared environments and vectors.
{"title":"Molecular analysis of vector-borne pathogens in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from Saxony-Anhalt (Germany)","authors":"Zoë Tess Lara Lindhorst , Manuela Theresa Frangl , Barbara Eigner , Bita Shahi Barogh , Georg Gerhard Duscher , Annette Schliephake , Wolfgang Gaede , Hans-Peter Fuehrer , Mike Heddergott","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101162","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101162","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) are becoming increasingly important in veterinary medicine and public health, with wildlife potentially playing a key role in their transmission. The objective of the current study was to investigate the occurrence of vector-borne pathogens in red foxes (<em>Vulpes vulpes</em>). Spleen samples from 277 legally hunted foxes were collected over a period of twelve months (May 2020 to April 2021) in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. VBPs were identified by performing PCR analysis on the samples, followed by Sanger sequencing, and a phylogenetic analysis was performed on <em>Mycoplasma</em> spp. A total of 94 % of the samples showed a positive result. The pathogens identified were <em>Hepatozoon</em> spp. (77 %), <em>Babesia vulpes</em> (68 %), <em>Mycoplasma haemocanis</em> (5 %), <em>Mycoplasma</em> spp. (5 %), <em>Bartonella taylorii</em> (1 %), <em>Bartonella rochalimae</em> (0.7 %), and <em>Trypanosoma pestanai</em> (0.4 %). None of the examined samples tested positive for filarioid helminths, <em>Rickettsia</em> spp., and Anaplasmataceae. This study highlights the role of foxes as reservoirs for pathogens that may affect domestic animals and humans, potentially contributing to the spread of these pathogens through shared environments and vectors.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101162"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-11-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145570746","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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