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}
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 : 2025-12-01DOI: 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}
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}
Pub Date : 2025-11-17DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101163
R.K. Davidson , S. Dembereldagva , I.H. Nymo , T. Mørk , J. Sánchez Romano , R. þórarinsdóttir , K.S. Utaaker , S.G. þórisson , M. Tryland
Eurasian tundra reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) were introduced to Iceland from Norway in the late 18th century and have thrived in Eastern Iceland. In 2003–2005 the parasitic fauna was studied, and Icelandic reindeer were found to lack many parasites common to Norwegian reindeer. This study from 2018 provides an updated comparison. Abomasal content and faeces were collected from the 117 reindeer (63 adults, 22 yearlings, 17 calves, 15 age not recorded), from: 1 - West (N = 29), 2 - Central (N = 44), 3–9 - East (N = 40), not recorded (N = 4) management areas hunted in 2018. Not all animals were examined by all methods. Abomasal nematode counts (N = 81) were carried out in addition to faecal egg and larval counts, using modified McMaster (N = 111) and Baermann (N = 108). Abomasal nematodes were detected in 31 % of samples, with low mean abundance (48) and intensity (160). Males had higher prevalence (46 %) and mean abundance (89) than females (24 %; 29). The sheep gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) Teladorsagia circumcincta predominated, although, for the first time, single specimens of Spiculopteragia boehmi (Gebauer,1932) and a male nematode with morphology suggestive of Ostertagia arctica, a minor morph of O. gruehneri, were detected. Trichostrongylus axei was not detected. Trichostrongylidae and Aonchotheca egg prevalence was 35 % (mean abundance eggs per gram, EPG, 12, mean intensity 33 EPG) and 23 % (mean abundance 8 EPG; mean intensity 34 EPG) respectively. No faecal larvae were detected. There were geographic as well as sex related differences in abundance. Trichostrongylidae eggs prevalence, but not abundance, was higher in 2018 compared to 2005, and an opposite trend with abomasal nematode counts was seen. Reindeer in Iceland still have a low prevalence and abundance of GINs, dominated by T. circumcincta. The monitoring of GIN in this population provides a simple means of evaluating population health in a time with changing climate.
{"title":"An update on gastrointestinal nematodes in reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) in Iceland","authors":"R.K. Davidson , S. Dembereldagva , I.H. Nymo , T. Mørk , J. Sánchez Romano , R. þórarinsdóttir , K.S. Utaaker , S.G. þórisson , M. Tryland","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101163","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101163","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Eurasian tundra reindeer (<em>Rangifer tarandus</em>) were introduced to Iceland from Norway in the late 18th century and have thrived in Eastern Iceland. In 2003–2005 the parasitic fauna was studied, and Icelandic reindeer were found to lack many parasites common to Norwegian reindeer. This study from 2018 provides an updated comparison. Abomasal content and faeces were collected from the 117 reindeer (63 adults, 22 yearlings, 17 calves, 15 age not recorded), from: 1 - West (N = 29), 2 - Central (N = 44), 3–9 - East (N = 40), not recorded (N = 4) management areas hunted in 2018. Not all animals were examined by all methods. Abomasal nematode counts (N = 81) were carried out in addition to faecal egg and larval counts, using modified McMaster (N = 111) and Baermann (N = 108). Abomasal nematodes were detected in 31 % of samples, with low mean abundance (48) and intensity (160). Males had higher prevalence (46 %) and mean abundance (89) than females (24 %; 29). The sheep gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) <em>Teladorsagia circumcincta</em> predominated, although, for the first time, single specimens of <em>Spiculopteragia boehmi (Gebauer,1932)</em> and a male nematode with morphology suggestive of <em>Ostertagia arctica</em>, a minor morph of <em>O. gruehneri</em>, were detected. <em>Trichostrongylus axei</em> was not detected. Trichostrongylidae and <em>Aonchotheca</em> egg prevalence was 35 % (mean abundance eggs per gram, EPG, 12, mean intensity 33 EPG) and 23 % (mean abundance 8 EPG; mean intensity 34 EPG) respectively. No faecal larvae were detected. There were geographic as well as sex related differences in abundance. Trichostrongylidae eggs prevalence, but not abundance, was higher in 2018 compared to 2005, and an opposite trend with abomasal nematode counts was seen. Reindeer in Iceland still have a low prevalence and abundance of GINs, dominated by <em>T. circumcincta</em>. The monitoring of GIN in this population provides a simple means of evaluating population health in a time with changing climate.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101163"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-11-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145570743","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}
Hemoprotozoa are blood-borne protists with complex life cycles. Despite their high prevalence, diversity of hemoprotozoa in reptiles remains poorly documented. We analyzed blood smears, histopathology, and PCR-amplified 18S rDNA and cytochrome oxidase c subunit I (COI) sequences from ten reptiles representing five species imported into Taiwan. In Varanus macraei, elongated intraerythrocytic gamonts and hepatic merogonic stages were documented. The near full-length 18S sequence formed a deeply divergent lineage consistent with a novel taxon, for which we propose Hepatozoon macraei sp. nov. In Ctenosaura quinquecarinata and Ctenosaura similis, hemococcidian sporozoites were identified morphologically. Based on 18S rDNA phylogenetic inference, the lineages derived from C. quinquecarinata were placed within Lankesterella. In addition, all haplotypes from C. quinquecarinata clustered with a previously reported C. similis lineage based on COI phylogenetic inference. In C. quinquecarinata, intraerythrocytic Hepatozoon were present, and 18S phylogenies formed a well-supported clade closest to H. ophisauri. In Basiliscus plumifrons, trophozoites and meronts of Plasmodium were detected. Analyses of partial 18S rRNA and COI sequences each placed the newly generated Plasmodium sequence as a separate lineage that did not cluster with available reference sequences. In Stigmochelys pardalis, intraerythrocytic gamonts matched Hepatozoon fitzsimonsi morphologically and phylogenetically, representing the first record from Taiwan. The current study provides molecular and morphological evidence of multiple hemoprotozoan genera infecting reptilian pets in Taiwan, highlighting the need for further investigation into the diversity, host-pathogen relationships, and potential impacts on native herpetofauna in the global exotic pet trade.
{"title":"Molecular and morphological characterization of hemoprotozoan infections in imported reptiles in Taiwan","authors":"Yen-Chi Chang , Tai-Shen Lin , Wei-Wen Huang , Yi-Hsiang Huang , Cheng-Hsin Shih , Ying-Chen Wu , Chiu-Chen Huang , Ter-Hsin Chen","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101164","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101164","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Hemoprotozoa are blood-borne protists with complex life cycles. Despite their high prevalence, diversity of hemoprotozoa in reptiles remains poorly documented. We analyzed blood smears, histopathology, and PCR-amplified 18S rDNA and cytochrome oxidase c subunit I (<em>COI</em>) sequences from ten reptiles representing five species imported into Taiwan. In <em>Varanus macraei,</em> elongated intraerythrocytic gamonts and hepatic merogonic stages were documented. The near full-length 18S sequence formed a deeply divergent lineage consistent with a novel taxon, for which we propose <em>Hepatozoon macraei</em> sp. nov. In <em>Ctenosaura quinquecarinata</em> and <em>Ctenosaura similis</em>, hemococcidian sporozoites were identified morphologically. Based on 18S rDNA phylogenetic inference, the lineages derived from <em>C. quinquecarinata</em> were placed within <em>Lankesterella</em>. In addition, all haplotypes from <em>C. quinquecarinata</em> clustered with a previously reported <em>C. similis</em> lineage based on <em>COI</em> phylogenetic inference. In <em>C. quinquecarinata</em>, intraerythrocytic <em>Hepatozoon</em> were present, and 18S phylogenies formed a well-supported clade closest to <em>H. ophisauri</em>. In <em>Basiliscus plumifrons</em>, trophozoites and meronts of <em>Plasmodium</em> were detected. Analyses of partial 18S rRNA and <em>COI</em> sequences each placed the newly generated <em>Plasmodium</em> sequence as a separate lineage that did not cluster with available reference sequences. In <em>Stigmochelys pardalis</em>, intraerythrocytic gamonts matched <em>Hepatozoon fitzsimonsi</em> morphologically and phylogenetically, representing the first record from Taiwan. The current study provides molecular and morphological evidence of multiple hemoprotozoan genera infecting reptilian pets in Taiwan, highlighting the need for further investigation into the diversity, host-pathogen relationships, and potential impacts on native herpetofauna in the global exotic pet trade.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101164"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-11-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145570813","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 : 2025-11-14DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101159
Avery L. Korns , Karmen Unterwegner , Adam J. Weiss , Philip Tchindebet Oaukou , Hubert Zirimwabagabo , Richard B. Chandler , Dana J. Morin , Michael J. Yabsley , Christopher A. Cleveland
Since 2012, Guinea worm (GW – Dracunculus medinensis) infections in animals have complicated the Guinea worm Eradication Program's (GWEP) goal to eradicate this parasite. Increased infections in domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) and cats (Felis catus) have been a concern. Detections of infections in wild felids from Chad and olive baboons (Papio anubis) in Ethiopia highlight a significant knowledge gap concerning the role of wildlife in GW transmission. Furthermore, little is known about the diversity of wildlife surrounding villages in Chad and what role these animals may play in GW transmission. We aimed to provide data on the community composition of wildlife surrounding Chadian villages by deploying game cameras to monitor terrestrial wildlife at study sites in the Sarh region of southern Chad. Seven villages were chosen for game camera deployment based on accessibility, spatial independence, and GW disease (GWD) endemicity. Villages were classified by GW transmission levels as either endemic, sporadic, or negative based on reports during a previous surveillance study. Eight game cameras were deployed per village from February–November 2019. A total of 32 mammalian species were recorded from 9280 trap nights. Our results indicate higher wildlife diversity surrounding villages with GWD. Specifically, we found a higher detection of primates and meso-mammals surrounding villages with consistent reports of Guinea worm infections. Single-season occupancy models were fit for the following species: tantalus monkeys (Chlorocebus tantalus), patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas), Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon), and pale fox (Vulpes pallida). Occupancy of tantalus monkeys, patas monkeys, and Egyptian mongoose was greater in endemic and sporadic villages than villages with no reported cases of GWD. While wildlife host competency remains unknown, our results provide documentation on the wildlife species present around villages in Sarh, Chad, a step towards increasing the understanding wildlife may potentially play in the transmission of GW.
{"title":"Evaluating wildlife community composition around villages with varying Guinea worm (Dracunculus medinensis) transmission in Chad, Africa","authors":"Avery L. Korns , Karmen Unterwegner , Adam J. Weiss , Philip Tchindebet Oaukou , Hubert Zirimwabagabo , Richard B. Chandler , Dana J. Morin , Michael J. Yabsley , Christopher A. Cleveland","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101159","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101159","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Since 2012, Guinea worm (GW – <em>Dracunculus medinensis</em>) infections in animals have complicated the Guinea worm Eradication Program's (GWEP) goal to eradicate this parasite. Increased infections in domestic dogs (<em>Canis lupus familiaris</em>) and cats (<em>Felis catus</em>) have been a concern. Detections of infections in wild felids from Chad and olive baboons (<em>Papio anubis</em>) in Ethiopia highlight a significant knowledge gap concerning the role of wildlife in GW transmission. Furthermore, little is known about the diversity of wildlife surrounding villages in Chad and what role these animals may play in GW transmission. We aimed to provide data on the community composition of wildlife surrounding Chadian villages by deploying game cameras to monitor terrestrial wildlife at study sites in the Sarh region of southern Chad. Seven villages were chosen for game camera deployment based on accessibility, spatial independence, and GW disease (GWD) endemicity. Villages were classified by GW transmission levels as either endemic, sporadic, or negative based on reports during a previous surveillance study. Eight game cameras were deployed per village from February–November 2019. A total of 32 mammalian species were recorded from 9280 trap nights. Our results indicate higher wildlife diversity surrounding villages with GWD. Specifically, we found a higher detection of primates and meso-mammals surrounding villages with consistent reports of Guinea worm infections. Single-season occupancy models were fit for the following species: tantalus monkeys (<em>Chlorocebus tantalus</em>), patas monkeys (<em>Erythrocebus patas</em>), Egyptian mongoose (<em>Herpestes ichneumon</em>), and pale fox (<em>Vulpes pallida</em>). Occupancy of tantalus monkeys, patas monkeys, and Egyptian mongoose was greater in endemic and sporadic villages than villages with no reported cases of GWD. While wildlife host competency remains unknown, our results provide documentation on the wildlife species present around villages in Sarh, Chad, a step towards increasing the understanding wildlife may potentially play in the transmission of GW.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101159"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-11-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145570814","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 : 2025-11-10DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101158
Maciej Grobelski , Michał Kułakowski , Karolina Górzyńska
Fungi associated with aquatic invertebrates remain poorly characterized, particularly those inhabiting leeches (Hirudinea), which are key components of freshwater ecosystems. In this study, the fungal communities associated with five species of glossiphoniid leeches were investigated, and isolates were obtained and compared from internal tissues and the body surface. In total, 19 fungal species were identified, including plant pathogens (e.g., Cadophora luteo-olivacea, Comoclathris typhicola, Plectosphaerella plurivora) and opportunistic human pathogens (e.g., Meyerozyma guilliermondii, Mucor circinelloides, Arthroderma sp.). Notably, Papiliotrema aurea, a fungus known to infect invertebrate tissues, was detected inside Glossiphonia complanata. The occurrence of several taxa both in the surrounding water and on leeches suggests that leeches may act as vectors of fungal dispersal in aquatic ecosystems. The results highlight the importance of leeches not only as potential dispersal agents of plant pathogens, which may affect vegetation and aquaculture, but also as reservoirs of opportunistic human pathogens.
{"title":"Hidden highways: fungi associated with glossiphoniid leeches","authors":"Maciej Grobelski , Michał Kułakowski , Karolina Górzyńska","doi":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101158","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijppaw.2025.101158","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Fungi associated with aquatic invertebrates remain poorly characterized, particularly those inhabiting leeches (Hirudinea), which are key components of freshwater ecosystems. In this study, the fungal communities associated with five species of glossiphoniid leeches were investigated, and isolates were obtained and compared from internal tissues and the body surface. In total, 19 fungal species were identified, including plant pathogens (e.g., <em>Cadophora luteo-olivacea</em>, <em>Comoclathris typhicola</em>, <em>Plectosphaerella plurivora</em>) and opportunistic human pathogens (e.g., <em>Meyerozyma guilliermondii</em>, <em>Mucor circinelloides</em>, <em>Arthroderma</em> sp.). Notably, <em>Papiliotrema aurea</em>, a fungus known to infect invertebrate tissues, was detected inside <em>Glossiphonia complanata</em>. The occurrence of several taxa both in the surrounding water and on leeches suggests that leeches may act as vectors of fungal dispersal in aquatic ecosystems. The results highlight the importance of leeches not only as potential dispersal agents of plant pathogens, which may affect vegetation and aquaculture, but also as reservoirs of opportunistic human pathogens.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54278,"journal":{"name":"International Journal for Parasitology-Parasites and Wildlife","volume":"28 ","pages":"Article 101158"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-11-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145519408","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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