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[Display omitted] • Morphological and ecological attributes of parasite species did not contribute to parasite beta-diversity. • Contribution of parasite species to their beta-diversity depended on mean abundance and/or prevalence. • The effect of host sex or age on their contribution to parasite beta-diversity was detected in a few species only. We searched for common patterns in parasite ecology by investigating species and host contributions to the beta-diversity of infracommunities (=assemblages of parasites harboured by a host individual) in helminths of three species of South African ungulates and fleas of 11 species of South American rodents, assuming that a comparison of patterns in distinctly different parasites and hosts would allow us to judge the generality or, at least, commonness of these patterns. We used data on species' composition and numbers of parasites and asked whether (i) parasite species' attributes (life cycle, transmission mode, and host specificity in helminths; possession of sclerotized combs, microhabitat preference, and host specificity in fleas) or their population structure (mean abundance and/or prevalence) and (ii) host characteristics (sex and age) affect parasite and host species' contributions to parasite beta-diversity (SCBD and HCBD, respectively). We found that parasite species' morphological and ecological attributes were mostly not associated with their SCBD. In contrast, parasite SCBD, in both ungulates and rodents, significantly increased with either parasite mean abundance or prevalence or both. The effect of host characteristics on HCBD was detected in a few hosts only. In general, parasite infracommunities' beta-diversity appeared to be driven by variation in parasite species rather than the uniqueness of the assemblages harboured by individual hosts. We conclude that some ecological patterns (such as the relationships between SCBD and parasite abundance/prevalence) appear to be common and do not differ between different host-parasite associations in different geographic regions, whereas other patterns (the relationships between SCBD and parasite species' attributes) are contingent and depend on parasite and host identities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research Highlight: Mistrick, J., Veitch, J. S. M., Kitchen, S. M., Clague, S., Newman, B. C., Hall, R. J., Budischak, S. A., Forbes, K. M., & Craft, M. E. (2024). Effects of food supplementation and helminth removal on space use and spatial overlap in wild rodent populations. Journal of Animal Ecology. http://doi.org/10.1111/1365‐2656.14067. The spread of pathogens has been of long‐standing interest, even before dramatic outbreaks of avian influenza and the coronavirus pandemic spiked broad public interest. However, the dynamics of pathogen spread in wild populations are complex, with multiple effects shaping where animals go (their space use), population density and, more fundamentally, the resultant patterns of contacts (direct or indirect) among individuals. Thus, experimental studies exploring the dynamics of contact under different sets of conditions are needed. In the current field study, Mistrick et al. (2024) used a multifactorial experimental design, manipulating food availability and individual pathogen infection state in wild bank voles (Clethrionomys glareolus). They found that while food availability, individual traits and seasonality can affect how far individual voles moved, the degree of overlap between individual voles remained largely the same despite a high variation in population density—which itself was affected by food availability. These results highlight how biotic and abiotic factors can shape patterns of space use and balance the level of spatial overlap through multiple pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cockroaches are resilient insects that thrive in various environments, including public markets. These creatures can act as mechanical vectors for intestinal helminths, posing a risk to human health. This study aimed to identify and measure the infestation rate of intestinal helminths in cockroaches from Bankerohan Public Market and Agdao Public Market in Davao City. Cockroaches were collected using specialized traps via the "catch-and-release" method, and the presence of intestinal parasites on their external surfaces was determined. The study found that cockroaches from both markets harbored Hookworm and Ascaris lumbricoides, with Ascaris lumbricoides having the highest frequency and infestation rate among the entire population of cockroaches gathered from both markets. The infestation rate of Ascaris lumbricoides was higher in the Bankerohan public market compared to the Agdao public market; however, the findings reveal that there is no correlation between the frequency of the parasites and the public market studied, indicating that the occurrence of the parasites cannot be attributed to the location of the public markets. The study highlights the need for improved sanitation practices and awareness to control parasite transmission through cockroaches, which can serve as vectors for these pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the correlation between the presence of parasites in soil and the nutritional status of children aged 3 to 5 at Purok 15 Barangay Tigatto, Buhangin, Davao City. The research design was descriptive and correlational. The researchers gathered the weight and height of children aged 3 to 5 in Purok 15 of Barangay Tigatto, Davao City. Researchers identified the collected soil samples using a systematic sampling technique. Further, the study used Cobb's method to decant and sieve for detecting parasites. The weight and height were calculated to get the BMI. The mean and standard deviation were used to evaluate the nutritional status of the children and the level of parasites. Furthermore, Pearson r was used to determine the relationship between soil-transmitted helminths and the nutritional status of children aged 3 to 5. Results showed that out of 25 samples, 32% of soil samples got positive results with an infectious parasite (Strongyloides stercoralis), while 68% of soil samples were negative from the parasite. Participants' weight (kgs) and height (cm) are normal. In line with this, the BMI of both male and female participants is normal. Also, results showed that the level of the parasites is very low. Moreover, the relationship between the soil-transmitted helminths did not significantly influence the nutritional status of children aged 3 to 5. In conclusion, the soil-transmitted helminths do not affect the nutritional status of children aged 3 to 5. Hence, other factors may influence the nutritional status of children aged 3 to 5. Moreover, since the relationship between STH and the nutritional status of children is not significant, the presence or absence of STH in the latrine area does not affect the nutritional status of children under 3 to 5 years old. Thus, immediate action toward STH elimination could prevent the production of more parasites that could lead to a parasite-free environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nutrient content of host resources can influence the abundance of parasites within an ecosystem, but linking specific nutrients in a host to the abundance of different parasite taxa remains a challenge. Here, we work to forge this link by quantifying the relationship between the nutrient content of specific infection sites and the abundance of multiple parasite taxa within the digestive tract of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) collected from the Mississippi River. To generate a mechanistic understanding of these relationships, we tested four basic predictions: (1) the nutrient content of different host tissues (infection sites) varies within and across hosts, (2) the nutrient content of parasite genera differs from that of their host tissue(s), (3) the nutrient content of parasite genera differ from one another and (4) the nutrient content of host tissues is related to the nutrient content and abundance of parasite genera. We found support for each of these predictions. We found stoichiometric differences between the digestive tissues we examined. We also found that across hosts, intestine and pyloric caeca C:N ratios increased and %N decreased with fish condition factor. Both of the actively feeding parasitic genera we measured had lower C:N ratios compared to both their host tissue and other encysted/non‐reproductive genera, suggesting the potential for N limitation of these parasites in the intestines or pyloric caeca of hosts. Consistent with this possibility, we found that the total number of actively feeding parasitic worms in the pyloric caeca increased with that tissue's N:P ratio (but was not related to host condition factor). Our results suggest that parasites encounter significant variation in nutrient content within and across hosts and that this variation may influence the abundance of actively feeding parasites. This work highlights the need for additional empirical comparisons of parasite stoichiometry across tissues and individual hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insectivores (Eulypotiphla) are a substantial component of Russian forest ecosystems. The parasites of these animals also form an important part of natural biocenoses and act as one of the factors in the formation of biodiversity. The Mordovia Nature Reserve and National Park "Smolny" are large, forested areas located in the center of European Russia. We studied the helminth fauna of insectivores in these protected areas in 2018–2022. In total, using the method of complete helminthological necropsy, we examined 478 individuals of shrews, moles, and hedgehogs and recorded 34 species of parasitic worms, i.e., 8 trematode, 7 cestode, 1 acanthocephalan, and 18 nematode species. The most diverse helminth fauna was found in Sorex araneus (22 species). The composition of helminths in S. isodon (12), Neomys fodiens (9), Sorex minutus, and Erinaceus roumanicus (8 species each) turned out to be less diverse. The lowest species diversity of helminths was observed in Neomys milleri (3) and Talpae europaea (2 species). Taking into account the newly obtained data, we conducted a review of the helminth diversity in shrews, hedgehogs, and moles in the Middle Volga region. According to our literature data, the helminth fauna of insectivores in this region consists of 52 species, including 14 cestodes, 13 trematodes, 22 nematodes, and 3 acanthocephalans. Most of them belong to the Palearctic faunal complex (36 species). The helminth fauna of insectivores in the studied protected areas was compared with the helminth fauna of micromammals in other areas of the Middle Volga region. Our comparative analysis showed a high and average degree of similarity in the helminth fauna within individual species and genera of Eulipotyphla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melatonin is a pleiotropic neurohormone found in different animal, plant, and microorganism species. It is a product resulting from tryptophan metabolism in the pineal gland and is widely known for its ability to synchronize the circadian rhythm to antitumor functions in different types of cancers. The molecular mechanisms responsible for its immunomodulatory, antioxidant and cytoprotective effects involve binding to high-affinity G protein-coupled receptors and interactions with intracellular targets that modulate signal transduction pathways. In vitro and in vivo studies have reported the therapeutic potential of melatonin in different infectious and parasitic diseases. In this review, the protective and pathophysiological roles of melatonin in fighting protozoan and helminth infections and the possible mechanisms involved against these stressors will be discussed. • Melatonin is an indole hormone with different functions, from antioxidant activity to immunomodulation. • Melatonin has activity against protozoa by acting, above all, directly and indirectly in the infectious process. • Melatonin reduces the impact of the infectious process caused by helminths, especially by inducing protection against oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We have conducted a 10-year coprological study of animals housed in two zoological institutions with different housing conditions to assess parasite biodiversity and prevalence, their relationship with host class (mammal/bird), diet (carnivorous/omnivorous/herbivorous), and enclosure characteristics (soil type, isolation from wild fauna), and evaluated the risk of transmission to humans. A total of 4476 faecal samples from 132 mammal species and 951 samples from 86 avian species were examined, with 62.1% of mammal species and 12.8% of avian species testing positive. Statistically significant differences were found based on diet type; few carnivorous species were detected infected, primarily by nematodes, while many herbivorous and omnivorous species were primarily infected by protists. No statistically significant differences were observed based on soil type (artificial, natural, mixed) and isolation level (isolated/accessible). Several parasite species found in the study (Entamoeba spp., Giardia spp., Balantioides coli, Trichuris spp.) could potentially be transmitted between housed animals, wild fauna, and humans. Regular analyses of the animals and implementation and follow-up of health programs would minimise transmission risks between housed animals, wild fauna, and humans. We have conducted a 10-year-long coprological study of the animals housed in two zoological institutions (ZooAquarium and Faunia, Madrid, Spain) to assess the parasite biodiversity, prevalence, and their relation with host class, diet, and enclosure type (soil type and level of isolation from wild fauna). A total of 4476 faecal samples from 132 mammal species and 951 samples from 86 avian species were examined. The results indicated that only 12.8% of avian species had parasites at least once during the study period, whereas 62.1% of mammal species tested positive. Predominantly, protists (Entamoeba, flagellates, and ciliates) and nematodes (mainly Trichuris) were identified in the findings. Carnivorous species were primarily infected by nematodes, while herbivorous and omnivorous species were mainly infected by protists. The number of infected herbivorous and omnivorous species was significantly greater than carnivorous species. Differences were observed based on soil type (artificial, natural, mixed) and isolation level (isolated/accessible), but these differences were not statistically significant. Several parasites (Entamoeba spp., Giardia spp., Balantidoides coli, Trichuris spp.) could potentially be transmitted between humans and some mammals and birds. Regular animal analyses and a personnel health program in the institutions would minimise transmission risks between zoo animals, wildlife, and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Definition: In recent decades, important modifications have been introduced in zoos in order to guarantee the welfare of captive wild animals. Thus, many of these species are housed in enclosures with access to vegetation, where they can enjoy habitats close to those in their natural surroundings, interact with the environment, etc. These habitats present beneficial conditions for some species of parasites to survive and spread. This is a very similar problem to that affecting livestock, and the same solution, based on deworming, is currently being applied. However, the free-living stages of certain parasites that develop in the soil are responsible for high rates of ground contamination throughout the year, so that animals become infected soon after successful deworming, resulting in chemical parasiticides being frequently administered. Preventive measures are seldom considered, which worsens the situation. This entry summarizes the usefulness of the dissemination of certain saprophytic filamentous fungi with proven antagonism against some of the parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitic diseases of wild animals represent an important area of research. In addition to the significant impact on wildlife health and fitness, many parasitic diseases have zoonotic implications. Due to limited scientific information, this research aimed to investigate parasitic diseases in wildlife in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H), focusing on the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FB&H), emphasizing zoonotic species. In the period from April 2020 to November 2022, we conducted research on 9 wildlife species. We analyzed fecal samples to detect and identify diagnostic stages (eggs, larvae, cysts, and oocysts) of various animal endoparasites using coprological methods, such as sedimentation, flotation, and the Baermann technique. The MERIFLUOR® Cryptosporidium/Giardia test was also used for the detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cysts. In the case of red foxes, intestinal samples were examined using the intestinal scraping technique to detect adult helminths. All collected muscle samples were subjected to the artificial digestion method for Trichinella detection. From 1,278 samples, 70.9% were positive. Parasitic infections were confirmed in 15.9% (11/69) of bears; 83.7% (262/313) of red foxes; 67.6% (44/65) of wolves; 25% (1/4) of wildcats; 20% (1/5) of badger; 43.7% (7/16) of martens; 39.7% (76/191) of wild boars; 84.5% (350/414) of deer, and 77.1% (155/201) of hares. The finding of zoonotic parasites (Toxocara canis, Uncinaria spp., Trichinella spp., Echinococcus spp. etc.) is particularly important due to their potential detrimental effects on human health, which highlights the need for further investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We assessed the prevalence of soil-associated parasites and non-pathogenic nematodes in eight public areas of Porto Alegre (Rio Grande do Sul state, southern Brazil), the most populous city in Rio Grande do Sul. Soil samplings were carried out during the winter of 2022 and summer of 2023: A total of 80 samples were collected in winter and 80 in summer (ten samples from each sampling site per season), totaling 160 soil samples. The frequency of microscopic non-pathogenic nematode larvae was significantly higher (p = 0.048) in winter (93.75%) than in summer (82.50%). Considering the pooled data from winter and summer (n = 160) for human pathogenic parasites, the following frequencies were observed (using microscopy analysis): hookworm (filariform) larvae (1.25%), hookworm (rhabditiform) larvae (11.25%), Strongyloides spp. (filariform) larvae (0.63%), Strongyloides spp. (rhabditiform) larvae (2.5%), hookworm eggs (10.63%), Ascaris spp. eggs (10.00%), and Trichuris spp. eggs (1.25%). Hookworm (rhabditiform) larvae were the most frequent parasitic structures (15.00%) in winter, and A. lumbricoides eggs were the most frequent parasitic structures (8.75%) in summer. No statistically significant difference was observed in the frequency of pathogenic parasites between the seasons (p > 0.05). Toxoplasma gondii DNA was assessed, but all soil samples tested negative in molecular analysis. Our results indicate that soil from many regions of Porto Alegre shows a high prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths, indicating the need for improvements in social conditions and environmental sanitation in the city. Our study also suggests that climate change may affect soil biodiversity, potentially harming non-pathogenic nematodes and favoring human pathogenic parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the present review, information about parasitic helminths (Platyhelminthes, Nematoda, and Acanthocephala) of wild birds in Ecuador is presented based on a PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) systematic search. Data were obtained from ten scientific articles, eight undergraduate theses, and one doctoral dissertation, published between 1966 to 2022. Forty helminth taxa were recorded, and information about the host species, site of infection, and location are provided. This review serves as a compendium for future ecological and epidemiological studies on helminths in wild birds from Ecuador. Parasitic helminths are diverse in wild birds globally, but knowledge about helminths in Ecuadorian avifauna is still fragmentary. In the present review, records about helminths (Platyhelminthes, Nematoda, and Acanthocephala) in Ecuadorian wild birds is presented. A systematic search was carried out using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) guideline to compile and summarize the available literature on helminths in wild birds in Ecuador. Data were obtained from ten scientific articles, eight undergraduate theses, and one doctoral dissertation, published between 1966 to 2022. Forty helminth taxa were recorded and information about the host species, site of infection, and location are provided. Nematodes of the genus Ascaridia Dujardin, 1844 were the helminth taxa with the greatest number of records in birds, parasitizing 16 avian species. Also, the Rock Dove (Columba livia; Gmelin, 1789) was the avian species with the greater number of helminth records (n = 11). This review serves as a compendium for future ecological and epidemiological studies on helminths in wild birds in Ecuador and South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichostrongylus colubriformis is a parasitic helminth that primarily infects small ruminants, causing substantial economic losses in the livestock industry. Exploring the microbiome of this helminth might provide insights into the potential influence of its microbial community on the parasite's survival. We characterised the intestinal microbiome of T. colubriformis that had been collected from the duodenum of sheep, and compared the helminth microbiome with the duodenal microbiome of its host, aiming to identify contributions from the helminth's environment. At the same time, we explored the isolation of fastidious organisms from the harvested helminth. Primary alpha and beta diversity analyses of bacterial species revealed statistically significant differences between the parasite and the host, in terms of species richness and ecological composition. 16S rRNA differential abundance analysis showed that Mycoplasmoides and Stenotrophomonas were significantly present in T. colubriformis but not in the duodenal microbiome of the sheep. Furthermore, two bacteria, Aeromonas caviae and Aeromonas hydrophila, were isolated from T. colubriformis. Examinations of the genome highlight differences in genome size and profiles of antimicrobial resistance genes. Our results suggest that T. colubriformis carries a specific bacterial community that could be supporting the helminth's long-term survival in the host's digestive system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence of intestinal parasites is known to be high among Amerindian populations; further, there are serious problems in the healthcare of these populations in Brazil. The Maxakali, located in the northeastern region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, is an indigenous group that still preserves many of its cultural aspects. This study aimed to compare the positivity rate of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths in this ethnic group in epidemiological surveys conducted in 1972 and 2014. Methods: Stool parasitological examinations were performed by the Kato-Katz technique during both periods in this population. In 2014, the parasitological diagnosis was also realized with the TF-Test® technique. Results: In 1972, 270 inhabitants were examined. The positivity rates were 67.4% for Schistosoma mansoni, 72.9% for hookworms, 43.7% for Ascaris lumbricoides, and 23.7% for Trichuris trichiura. In 2014, 545 individuals were examined, and the positivity rates obtained were 45.7% for S. mansoni, 22.8% for hookworms, 0.6% for A. lumbricoides, and 2.8% for T. trichiura. Conclusions: The comparison of the parasitological surveys conducted in 1972 and 2014, indicates that the indigenous Maxakali remained neglected by the health and indigenous protection authorities during these four decades. The infection rate observed in 2014 for schistosomiasis and hookworm remains high, considering the current epidemiological view of these diseases in the Brazilian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite being an important component of the freshwater ecosystems and an important factor controlling wild fish populations, Amazonian fish parasites have been poorly studied. Here, we analyzed the fauna of metazoan parasites from 10 detritivorous and omnivorous fish species from Amapá Lake in the western Amazon. Of 159 fish specimens examined, 73.6% were parasitized by one or more species of metazoan parasites. A total of 5,260 parasites (24 Monogenea, 14 Nematoda, 10 Digenea, 2 Acanthocephala, and 6 Crustacea) were identified. Aggregated dispersion pattern of parasites was observed. There was a predominance of endohelminth species that presented a similar pattern regarding the level of component communities (i.e., a low species number, low diversity and dominance of a single species, mainly the digeneans and nematodes in their larval stages). Five species of parasites presented correlation with the body size of the hosts. In the fish community, the presence of endoparasites in the larval and adult stages suggests that these are intermediate, paratenic and definitive hosts, reflecting their detritivorous or omnivorous feeding habits. The trophic level and diet had an influence on the structuring of endohelminth communities and infracommunities. Lastly, 38% of the metazoan parasite species were new records for examined hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to measure the frequency of occurrence of infections with helminths, protozoa, and risk factors of undernutrition and anemia among schoolchildren from the Bolivian highland (altiplano) and lowland (subtropical) rural regions, with a high frequency of gastrointestinal parasite infections. Cross-sectional data were collected from 790 children, 5–13 years old. Microscopic examination of stool using the Ritchie technique, hemoglobin testing using the HemoCue analyzer, and anthropometric measurements were performed. Over 60% and 20% of children were infected with protozoa and helminth parasites, respectively. Infections caused by pathogenic Hymenolepis nana (15.7–5.2%), Ascaris lumbricoides (41.9–28.5%), Giardia lamblia (30.1–11.2%), Entamoeba histolytica (5.7–0.7%), and nonpathogenic Entamoeba coli (48.9–16%), Blastocystis hominis (40.2–28.5%), Iodamoeba butschli (16.1–2.5%), Chilomastix mesnili (19.2–7.3%), and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (7.4–5.5%) parasites, were more prevalent in the highlands than the lowlands. Single parasitic infections were more prevalent in the lowlands; polyparasitism of light or heavy intensity predominated in the highlands. A strongly increased risk of anemia and a low prevalence of wasting were determined in children in the highlands. A higher risk for stunting was associated with children of older age, and a low burden of intestinal helminths would prevent wasting in children of highlands. Infections with A. lumbricoides and G. lamblia pathogens in older children were not significant covariates for stunting. Environmental, nutritional, and parasitic factors may predispose to anemia in the highlands. A nutritional intervention and parasite control effort will substantially improve children´s health in the highlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate parasitic infection in captive sun bears (Helarctos malayanus) in Malaysia from December 2018 to May 2019. We collected 58 fecal samples from sun bears housed in the National Zoo, Taiping Zoo & Night Safari, Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. We analyzed the samples using modified fecal flotation techniques. We found 4 species of helminths (Ancylostoma spp., Baylisascaris spp., Trichuris spp., and Strongyloides spp.) and 1 species of protozoa (Eimeria spp.) in captive sun bears. The general prevalence of infection was 55.2%, with 48.3% prevalence of helminth infections and 34.5% protozoic infections. Juvenile males (69.2%) and juvenile females (61.5%) had the highest prevalence of parasitic infection. For nematodes, Baylisascaris spp. and Ancylostoma spp. had ≥50% prevalence rate in captive bears. For protozoa, the prevalence rate was <50%. We also found a high intensity of infection for Ancylostoma spp. in captive sun bears with a mean of 258.24 ± 0.62 eggs per gram (EPG), and the lowest intensity was recorded for Strongyloides spp. with 34.37 ± 1.17 EPG. Generally, the parasites we found were common in other species of bears and other mammals. This study revealed presence of parasites that could affect the well-being of sun bears in captivity. Therefore, we suggest that fecal screening be done regularly at 3-month intervals, and that it is essential to reduce the degree of parasitic infection in captive animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to comprehensively update and expand the knowledge on the diversity and richness of helminth parasites found in Peruvian amphibians. A systematic search was conducted across primary databases, encompassing both indexed and non-indexed articles, to compile the most recent data. As of the present study, a total of 83 distinct helminth taxa have been documented in association with 78 anuran species of the order Anura, marking a 176.7% increase from previously recorded figures. Nematodes exhibited the highest species richness, totalling 52 taxa (62.65%), followed by trematodes (21 taxa, 25.3%), acanthocephalans and cestodes (4 taxa each, 4.8%), and monogeneans (2 taxa, 2.4%). The overwhelming majority (85.5%) of the collected parasites (71 taxa) were identified as mature helminths, with the remaining 14.5% (12 taxa) in their larval stages. Notably, Cosmocerca brasiliense Travassos, 1925 (Cosmocercidae), and Physaloptera sp. (Physalopteridae) were the most prevalent nematodes, having infected the broadest range of host species. Rhinella marina Linnaeus, 1758 (Bufonidae), emerged as the anuran host with the highest diversity, harboring 17 distinct helminth species. These findings underscore the crucial role of helminth parasites in shaping amphibian ecosystems and their significance as bioindicators of environmental health. Protecting both amphibian hosts and their associated helminth parasites is paramount, as it is intrinsically linked to the preservation of ecological equilibrium within these ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to document a case of parasite co-infection in a captive Bactrian camel and to supply morphometric data of the found pathogens. It concerned a 20-year-old male animal inhabiting Sofia Zoo, Bulgaria. A decreased appetite and gastrointestinal disorders were observed in it during the summer of 2022. Improvement in the animal's condition was achieved after the administration of antibiotics, sulfonamides, and other symptomatic medicines. However, two weeks after treatment, clinical symptoms reappeared. Then, a diarrheal fecal sample from the animal was subjected to parasitological examination by direct smear and flotation and sedimentation techniques. Multiple infections by helminths (Trichostrongylus sp., Haemonchus sp., Oesophagostomum sp., Trichuris sp., and Dicrocoelium sp.), ciliates (Buxtonella cameli), and protozoa (Eimeria cameli) were found, with E. cameli being reported for the first time in zoo conditions. Deworming led to the recovery of the general condition and appearance of the animal's feces, but two weeks later, it died suddenly. We considered that the parasitic infection was not the direct cause of the fatal outcome, and its presence, other health disorders, and the advanced age of the animal were among the contributing factors. This case reveals the need to combine planned preventive deworming with routine parasitological diagnostics to take timely and targeted actions to protect the health of animals inhabiting zoo facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Across a species' range, populations are exposed to their local thermal environments, which on an evolutionary scale, may cause adaptative differences among populations. Helminths often have broad geographic ranges and temperature‐sensitive life stages but little is known about whether and how local thermal adaptation can influence their response to climate change. We studied the thermal responses of the free‐living stages of Marshallagia marshalli, a parasitic nematode of wild ungulates, along a latitudinal gradient. We first determine its distribution in wild sheep species in North America. Then we cultured M. marshalli eggs from different locations at temperatures from 5 to 38°C. We fit performance curves based on the metabolic theory of ecology to determine whether development and mortality showed evidence of local thermal adaptation. We used parameter estimates in life‐cycle‐based host–parasite models to understand how local thermal responses may influence parasite performance under general and location‐specific climate‐change projections. We found that M. marshalli has a wide latitudinal and host range, infecting wild sheep species from New Mexico to Yukon. Increases in mortality and development time at higher temperatures were most evident for isolates from northern locations. Accounting for location‐specific parasite parameters primarily influenced the magnitude of climate change parasite performance, while accounting for location‐specific climates primarily influenced the phenology of parasite performance. Despite differences in development and mortality among M. marshalli populations, when using site‐specific climate change projections, there was a similar magnitude of impact on the relative performance of M. marshalli among populations. Climate change is predicted to decrease the expected lifetime reproductive output of M. marshalli in all populations while delaying its seasonal peak by approximately 1 month. Our research suggests that accurate projections of the impacts of climate change on broadly distributed species need to consider local adaptations of organisms together with local temperature profiles and climate projections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitic infections continue to be a burden for developing countries—the lack of hygiene measures and clean water results in dangerous scenarios that can lead to challenging problems. Most Ascaris lumbricoides infections are usually mild; nonetheless, in rare cases in endemic regions, they can migrate to the bile duct and cause severe complications requiring surgery. We present the case of a 43-year-old woman who had severe cholangitis due to A. lumbricoides. The worm migrated from the bowel and obstructed the bile duct; after surgery, the patient fully recovered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuft cells have recently emerged as the focus of intense interest following the discovery of their chemosensory role in the intestinal tract, and their ability to activate Type 2 immune responses to helminth parasites. Moreover, they populate a wide range of mucosal tissues and are intimately connected to immune and neuronal cells, either directly or through the release of pharmacologically active mediators. They are now recognised to fulfil both homeostatic roles, in metabolism and tissue integrity, as well as acting as the first sensors of parasite infection, immunity to which is lost in their absence. In this review we focus primarily on the importance of tuft cells in the intestinal niche, but also link to their more generalised physiological role and discuss their potential as targets for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Helminth infections may have different effects on human health, including risk or protection from other diseases. Ascariasis (caused by Ascaris lumbricoides), the most common soil-transmitted helminthiasis, can induce allergic responses, and also immunosuppression. During ascariasis, antibodies for many A. lumbricoides antigens are produced; however, there is no clear information about the concurrent IgE, IgG4 and IgG production as well as their influences on the actual allergic reactions. In this study, we evaluated antibody responses to two A. lumbricoides molecules, rAsc l 5 and rAl-CPI (an anti-inflammatory product), in an A. lumbricoides endemic population and explored their relationship with the infection and asthma. Our results show that both molecules induce specific antibodies, but, in contrast to rAl-CPI, rAsc l 5 activates cells associated with allergic reactions in some individuals. All together, these data suggest that these molecules have differences in the elicited immune response. Immunity to Ascaris lumbricoides influences the pathogenesis of allergic diseases. Antibody responses to its proteins have been found to be associated with asthma presentation; however, helminth products that induce immunosuppression have been reported, which also raise specific antibodies. We aimed to evaluate antibody responses (IgE, IgG4 and IgG) to two A. lumbricoides molecules, Asc l 5 and Al-CPI (an anti-inflammatory Cysteine Protease Inhibitor), in an endemic population, exploring their relationships with the infection and asthma. The two molecules were produced as recombinant proteins in E. coli expression systems. Specific antibodies were detected by ELISA. Lower human IgE, but higher IgG4 and IgG antibody levels were observed for Al-CPI than for rAsc l 5. The IgE/IgG4 isotype ratio was significantly higher for Asc l 5 than for Al-CPI. In humans Al-CPI did not induce basophil activation as has been previously described for Asc l 5. In mice, Al-CPI induced fewer IgE responses, but more IgG2a antibody titers than rAsc l 5. Our results suggest that these molecules elicit different patterns of immune response to A. lumbricoides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropical aquatic ecosystems are among the most vulnerable environments on the planet and have been suffering increasing anthropogenic pressures, generating a marked loss of biodiversity. Especially when the ichthyofauna is approached, there is a loss of biomass consumed by the population, as well as a parasitic fauna that is still little studied, mainly in terms of taxonomic aspects, parasite biology, and the parasite/host relationship. The objective of this study was to record the parasitic fauna of Colomesus psittacus from Marajó Island, State of Pará, in the Brazilian Amazon. The fish were purchased from fishing pens belonging to family units within the Marine Extractive Reserve in the municipality of Soure, where the fish were discarded by fishermen. The fish (n=50) were necropsied, and their organs were individualized in a Petri dish to search for helminths. The helminths were then clarified and identified. Of the 50 specimens examined, 76% were parasitized by one or more species, and a total of 807 parasites were recovered. Among the helminths, it was possible to identify seven nematodes, Huffmanela psittacus (70%), Anisakis sp. (12%), Hysterothylacium sp. (8%), Philometra sp. 1 (28%), Philometra sp. 2 (2%), Cucullanus marajoara (28%), infective larva (L3) of Cucullanus sp. (34%). The trematodes recorded were a trematode Bianium sp. (2%) and type Paramonilicaecum, and two parasites belonging to the phylum Acanthocephala. The helminth community of C. psittacus was characterized by a high richness of nematodes and a small number of digenetics and acanthocephala. This is a new record of parasitic fauna in C. psittacus in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitic infections can have profound implications on host fitness, yet there is minimal information on parasites of the American horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus), a species that has experienced recent population declines. Therefore, we aimed to quantify the prevalence, intensity, and gill surface area coverage of the ectoparasite Bdelloura candida in adult (n = 58), sub-adult (n = 7) and juvenile (n = 32) horseshoe crabs (HSCs) collected from coastal waters of Long Island, NY in 2019 and 2022. Sub samples of horseshoe crab gill tissue (10%) were collected from live specimens and B. candida cocoon intensities from individual lamellae were enumerated microscopically. B. candida was present in all adult and sub-adult crabs (100%), whereas juveniles exhibited 6.2% prevalence. 4.0–94.0% of gill lamellae harbored cocoons, with intensities ranging from 0 to 805 cocoons per sub sample. Cocoon covered between 0.06%–14.51% of the gill sub sample surface area, with higher cocoon intensities observed in the ventral-most gill quartiles relative to the dorsal-most regions. Sex was strongly supported as a primary driver behind B. candida infection intensities with adult females harboring higher intensities. These results provide novel insight into B. candida infection dynamics across HSC demographics, but further research is necessary to quantify the physiological impacts of the infection on L. polyphemus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gastrointestinal helminth parasitic fauna of Pseudotolithus specimens, an economically important group of fishes from Lagos Lagoon, was examined to describe the effects of gastrointestinal helminth parasites on the state of health of Pseudotolithus species at Lagos Lagoon, Lagos, Nigeria. Fish specimens obtained from Makoko Fish Market were sacrificed from October 2019 to March 2020, and gastrointestinal helminth parasites were isolated. Pseudotolithus typhus (n = 76), Pseudotolithus elongatus (n = 104) and Pseudotolithus senegalensis (n = 120) were among the 300 fish specimens that were analysed. In total, 186 out of 300 fish specimens (62.0%) were found to have gastrointestinal helminth parasites after six months of sample collection. Pseudotolithus senegalensis had the highest prevalence of infection, 76 (63.3%), followed by P. elongatus, 68 (65.4%) and P. typhus, 42 (55.3%), which had the lowest prevalence of infection. Five species of parasites, Capillaria sp., Echinocephalus sp., Orneoascaris sp., Diphyllobothrium latum, and Neochinorhyncus sp., were isolated. Neochinorhyncus and Orneoascaris sp. had the highest prevalence among all Pseudotolithus species. The overall prevalence of infection, 77 (41.4%), was recorded in Capillaria sp., while the least prevalence, 08 (4.3%), was from Echinocephalus sp. The total prevalence for the present study is 62.0%. There was no significant difference in infection levels (P>0.05) between the two sexes, suggesting that neither sex was reliably affected by the parasite. Pseudotolithus species show a high prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths with a heavy parasitic burden, which may compromise the productivity, marketability, palatability, and or death of fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Only a small fraction of the Earth's total biodiversity has been described. This is particularly true of parasitic fauna, due to the paucity of taxonomic expertise, funding, and interest in parasites. It is expected that co-extinctions will become the main cause of species loss with potentially half of the parasite species becoming extinct prior to their discovery. This article addresses this issue and highlights case studies from the Otago Museum (OMNZ) (Dunedin, New Zealand), providing examples of successful collaborations between government organisations, museums, and parasitologists in bridging knowledge gaps in parasite diversity. The case studies presented focus on the parasitic helminths from opportunistic necropsies of stranded marine mammals and deceased birds. Collections from these case studies have doubled the size of the parasite collection at the OM, making this institution the most important repository of parasitic helminths in the country. We encourage such collaborations between museums, governing bodies, indigenous communities, ecologists and parasitologists in enhancing our knowledge of parasite diversity. Furthermore, we urge scientists to deposit both host and parasite tissues from surveys, vouchers, along with their respective metadata so that samples can be adequately stored and curated, thus ensuring that parasite collections become a legacy for future generations of scientists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wildlife may serve as potential reservoirs and intermediate or accidental hosts of zoonotic pathogens due to their interactions with human beings. For the first time in Ghana, we report extempore the gastrointestinal parasites of three Ethiopian rock hyraxes captured in September 2021. Forty adult parasites (21 nematodes and 19 tapeworms) were recovered from the gastrointestinal tracts of these three game hyraxes (Procavia capensis, Pallas, 1766) from the hills of Bimbagu (near the Gambaga Scarp) in the North East Region of Ghana. Adult worms comprising 16 tapeworms and 24 nematodes were identified. The intestinal faecal examination detected ova of Trichuris spp., tapeworms, and hookworms. The results are presented alongside the results of the molecular determination of the worm identities. Since wildlife has been identified as an important source of emerging human pathogens, including helminth parasites, there is an urgent need for sufficient literature on wildlife parasites in Ghana. As the rock hyrax is hunted for its meat, there is a potential risk of transmitting these identified helminths and other zoonotic pathogens to humans, especially involving people who handle the carcasses as the transmission is faecal-oral. A more precarious situation may arise when the eggs of cestodes are ingested by handlers of these carcasses and could result in cysticercosis/neuro-cysticercosis when these eggs cross the blood-brain barrier in the person. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasite infection is one of the many environmental factors that can significantly contribute to carcinogenesis and is already known to be associated with a variety of malignancies in both human and veterinary medicine. However, the actual number of cancerogenic parasites and their relationship to tumor development is far from being fully understood, especially in veterinary medicine. Thus, the aim of this review is to investigate parasite-related cancers in domestic and wild animals and their burden in veterinary oncology. Spontaneous neoplasia with ascertained or putative parasite etiology in domestic and wild animals will be reviewed, and the multifarious mechanisms of protozoan and metazoan cancer induction will be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although knowledge about parasitic diseases in Antarctic birds is scarce, an increasing number of studies is currently being carried out in this area. A better knowledge of host-parasite relationships in Antarctic seabirds is key to understanding trophic ecology and epidemiology of infection diseases, especially in those birds with extensive migratory routes that can act as reservoirs and distributors of diseases. This study aims to provide information on helminths of two storm-petrel species, the Wilson's Storm-Petrel Oceanites oceanicus and the Black-bellied Storm-Petrel Fregetta tropica (Oceanitidae). Twenty freshly dead individuals were analysed: 18 O. oceanicus (8 adults, 10 chicks) and 2 F. tropica (adults). Fifteen O. oceanicus were parasitized with the nematode Stegophorus macronectes, whereas the two F. tropica were parasitized by at least one of three parasite species identified: S. macronectes, Seuratia sp., and Tetrabothrius sp. The low richness of parasites may be associated with a stenophagic diet. However, a clear difference is observed between both host species that could be related to a higher fish ingestion by F. tropica, unlike O. oceanicus with a higher ingestion of krill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitic organisms, being an integral part of natural and technogenically transformed ecosystems, can serve as indicator species that reflect the impact on the environment, reacting to changes in the habitat with changes in physiology or chemical composition. Ectoparasites, due to the fact that they can interact with the environment in various ways, they are able to provide information about the hydro- and geochemical background of the environment due to their presence or absence. Endoparasites, in turn, are less susceptible to toxic substances, demonstrating the ability to accumulate environmental toxicants inside their tissues. The state of the environment has a significant impact on parasites, determining their quantitative and qualitative indicators of the population structure. In this regard, there is a need for systematic monitoring of ichthyoparasitological studies in the reservoirs of Northern Kazakhstan, using fish parasites as indicator species. The article presents the data of ichthyoparasitological studies conducted in the reservoirs of Northern Kazakhstan (Akmola, Pavlodar and North Kazakhstan regions), as a result of which 23 species of parasitic organisms were identified, including 1 species of zoonotic (Raphidascaris acus) and 2 species of highly virulent (Gyrodactylus cyprini, Schyzocotyle acheilognathi) helminths. Gyrodactylus cyprini, Gyrodactylus cernuae, Eudiplozoon sp., Diplostomum paraspathaceum, Diplostomum chomatophorum were first established for reservoirs of northern Kazakhstan. In the backwater of the Chernoyarsk basin, the Irtysh can be considered unfavorable for ergasileous parasitosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Helminths are parasitic worms that infect millions of people worldwide and secrete a variety of excretory-secretory products (ESPs), including proteins, peptides, and small molecules. Despite this, there is currently no comprehensive review article on cataloging small molecules from helminths, particularly focusing on the different classes of metabolites (polar and lipid molecules) identified from the ESP and somatic tissue extracts of helminths that were studied in isolation from their hosts. Objective: This review aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the metabolomics and lipidomics studies of parasitic helminths using all available analytical platforms. Method: To achieve this objective, we conducted a meta-analysis of the identification and characterization tools, metabolomics approaches, metabolomics standard initiative (MSI) levels, software, and databases commonly applied in helminth metabolomics studies published until November 2021. Result: This review analyzed 29 studies reporting the metabolomic assessment of ESPs and somatic tissue extracts of 17 helminth species grown under ex vivo/in vitro culture conditions. Of these 29 studies, 19 achieved the highest level of metabolite identification (MSI level-1), while the remaining studies reported MSI level-2 identification. Only 155 small molecule metabolites, including polar and lipids, were identified using MSI level-1 characterization protocols from various helminth species. Despite the significant advances made possible by the 'omics' technology, standardized software and helminth-specific metabolomics databases remain significant challenges in this field. Overall, this review highlights the potential for future studies to better understand the diverse range of small molecules that helminths produce and leverage their unique metabolomic features to develop novel treatment options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious diseases and malnutrition are some of the issues in Sokoto, Nigeria. Cattle remain significantly important in providing health and economic benefits to the people. However, cattle productions are affected by zoonoses, and in turn endangering the health of people. The current study will help in many ways and will invariably strengthen the bond between veterinary and medical workers. This study investigated the prevalence of zoonotic helminthes in cattle slaughtered at Gwadabawa abattoir of Sokoto State, Nigeria. About 5g of fecal samples were collected from 108 cattle and examined for presence of the parasites. Helminthes eggs and oocysts were detected using formal-ether concentration techniques. The results revealed an overall prevalence of 10.2% (11/108) for zoonotic parasites, from two genera Fasciola 7.4% (8/108) and Taenia 2.8% (3/108). Males had the higher prevalence 12% (6/50) of helminths infection than females 8.6% (5/58). Older cattle appeared to be more infected with 12.5% (5/48) of the infection compared to younger ones 8.3% (5/60). There were no significant (p<0.05) differences between infection and sex or ages of the cattle. Significantly (P<0.05), the prevalence based on breed showed that mixed breed cattle had the highest prevalence 17.1% (6/35) followed by Red Fulani 8.3% (4/48) and Sokoto Gudali 5.3% (1/19). Therefore, it is imperative to advocate for the provision of sanitary facilities at the abattoir, and among vendors; and the public should subject meat to proper preparation methods to minimize helminthes infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study presents new data on the helminths and helminth communities of fish from the freshwater ecosystem of the Luda Yana River as part of the Maritsa River Basin in Bulgaria, Eastern Aegean Water Basin. In connection with this, 32 specimens of Orpheus dace (Squalius orpheus Kottelat & Economidis, 2006) were collected and examined. The specimens were collected in the autumn of 2022 in the vicinity of the Popintsi village, located in the middle section of the Luda Yana River. The helminthological examination was carried out according to standard methods. Invasion with 3 species of helminths was found - one cestode species (Caryophyllaeides fennica (Schneider, 1902) Nybelin, 1922); one acanthocephalan species (Acanthocephalus lucii (Müller, 1776) Lühe, 1911) and one nematode species (Rhabdochona denudata (Dujardin, 1845) Railliet, 1916). Ac. lucii is reported for the first time from Sq. orpheus in Bulgaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the autumn of 2022, 37 specimens of Orpheus dace (Squalius orpheus Kottelat & Economidis, 2006) were subjected to helminthological examination. The fish were caught from the lower section of the Chepelarska River (in the area of Katunitsa village). Three endohelminth species were isolated - Acanthocephalus tenuirostris (Achmerov & Dombrovskaja-Achmerova, 1941) Yamaguti, 1963 (class Trematoda), Contracaecum sp., Rhabdochona denudata (Dujardin, 1845) Railliet, 1916 (class Nematoda). The component community and infracommunity of Orpheus dace were reviewed. One core species (Contracaecum sp.; P% = 32.43) was found in the component community of Sq. orpheus. Brillouin's diversity index (HB), Pielou's evenness index (E), and Simpson's dominance index (C) were calculated. The research aims to provide data on the helminths and helminth communities of Orpheus dace from the freshwater ecosystem of the Chepelarska River. The studied biotope (Katunitsa) is a new habitat for the found helminth species of Orpheus dace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An extensive survey of macroparasites in 320 European eel Anguilla anguilla (Linnaeus, 1758) was conducted in two brackish lagoons and eleven freshwater localities in the Mediterranean island of Corsica (France) between spring 2021 and winter 2021–2022. It resulted in the identification of nineteen parasites: two Monogea, four Digenea, one Copepoda, four Acanthocephala, three Cestoda, and five Nematoda, including the first geographical records, as Corsican freshwater sites were studied for the first time. The silvering stage was determined, and the eels were aged through otolithometry to compare parasite communities. Classic parasitology indices, a multivariate analysis, and an analysis of indicator values (IndVal) showed clear preferences towards the host's habitat and salinity. Seasonal variations were shown for several parasites. A dataset from the same two coastal lagoons was used to study the changes in the parasite communities over the last decade, and this showed an increase in the prevalence and abundance of three invasive helminth species: the Monogenea Pseudodactylogyrus bini (Kikuchi, 1929), Pseudodactylogyrus anguillae (Yin and Sproston, 1948) Gusev, 1965 and the Nematoda Anguillicola crassus Kuwahara, Niimi, and Itagaki, 1974. These pathogenic parasites were found in all sampled localities, except for the two Monogenea in the polyhaline-to-euhaline Urbino lagoon. It is thus advised that future management measures take into account the environmental preferences of the most concerning parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fine detail of gene expression in each cell is achievable by single-cell (sc)RNA-seq. • scRNA-seq has generated gene expression cell atlases for helminth species. • Host cell responses to infection can be profiled at the single-cell level. • Organoids provide an in vitro system for helminth research. How parasites develop and survive, and how they stimulate or modulate host immune responses are important in understanding disease pathology and for the design of new control strategies. Microarray analysis and bulk RNA sequencing have provided a wealth of data on gene expression as parasites develop through different life-cycle stages and on host cell responses to infection. These techniques have enabled gene expression in the whole organism or host tissue to be detailed, but do not take account of the heterogeneity between cells of different types or developmental stages, nor the spatial organisation of these cells. Single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) adds a new dimension to studying parasite biology and host immunity by enabling gene profiling at the individual cell level. Here we review the application of scRNA-seq to establish gene expression cell atlases for multicellular helminths and to explore the expansion and molecular profile of individual host cell types involved in parasite immunity and tissue repair. Studying host-parasite interactions in vivo is challenging and we conclude this review by briefly discussing the applications of organoids (stem-cell derived mini-tissues) to examine host-parasite interactions at the local level, and as a potential system to study parasite development in vitro. Organoid technology and its applications have developed rapidly, and the elegant studies performed to date support the use of organoids as an alternative in vitro system for research on helminth parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The control of gastrointestinal parasites in animals has become more challenging every year due to parasite resistance to conventional chemical control, which has been observed worldwide. Ovicidal or opportunistic fungi do not form traps to capture larvae. Their mechanism of action is based on a mechanical/enzymatic process, which enables the penetration of their hyphae into helminth eggs, with subsequent internal colonization of these. The biological control with the Pochonia chlamydosporia fungus has been very promising in the treatment of environments and prevention. When used in intermediate hosts of Schistosoma mansoni, the fungus promoted a high percentage decrease in the population density of aquatic snails. Secondary metabolites were also found in P. chlamydosporia. Many of these compounds can be used by the chemical industry in the direction of a commercial product. This review aims to provide a description of P. chlamydosporia and its possible use as a biological parasitic controller. The ovicidal fungus P. chlamydosporia is effective in the control of parasites and goes far beyond the control of verminosis, intermediate hosts, and coccidia. It can also be used not only as biological controllers in natura but also as their metabolites and molecules can have chemical action against these organisms. Key points: • The use of the fungus P. chlamydosporia is promising in the control of helminths. • Metabolites and molecules of P. chlamydosporia may have chemical action in control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to determine the diversity of anurans and the distribution of their helminth parasites at Fraser's Hill and Sungai Jeriau, Pahang. Anurans were captured at night, and their organs (i.e., lungs, liver, heart and digestive tract) were collected for parasite isolation. Parasite identification was performed using iodine staining under a light microscope. Ranidae were the dominant anuran family at both study sites, and their distributions were significantly different (p<0.05) between sites. A total of 97 anurans were captured and 63% were infected with helminth parasites. Nematodes were the most common parasite identified. A positive correlation between the weight of anurans and the number of parasites was observed. The study showed that Fraser's Hill and Sungai Jeriau have a diverse population of anurans and helminth parasite distribution. This finding is essential for insights into anuran ecology and infection to monitor their survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Dogs and cats are popular pets that play integral roles in human societies worldwide. Unfortunately, they can carry potential zoonotic helminths that can be transmitted to humans. However, data on the gastrointestinal helminths affecting dogs and cats in Bogor, Indonesia, are currently lacking. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites in pets from this area using a retrospective analysis. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of IPB University, Bogor. Cat and dog patients from January 2014 to April 2019 were tested for helminth infections and the results as well as their age, sex, and breed data were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results: Among the dogs and cats examined for internal parasites, 61.11% (33/51) of the dogs and 53.80% (92/171) of the cats were infected by helminths. Among the dogs, hookworm (37.04%) and Toxocara spp. (24.07%) were detected, while in the cats, hookworm (11.11%), Toxocara spp. (38.01%), and Dipylidium caninum (4.68%) were detected. The prevalence of hookworm and D. caninum was higher in older pets, while Toxocara spp. infected younger cats and dogs (<1 year) more frequently. The prevalence of Toxocara spp. in the Indonesian local dog breed was higher when than other breeds. Sex did not significantly affect the prevalence of parasites in dogs or cats. Conclusion: The discovery of zoonotic helminth parasites in the cat and dog pets from Bogor raises concerns for the inhabitants. Initiatives will be required to inform pet owners about prevention strategies for these parasitic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research of host defense peptides (HDPs) produced by helminths has been mostly neglected, although they are a segment of important cues within the tripartite communication among the parasite, host, and associated microbiota. Helminthic HDPs have low or no cyto- and genotoxicity toward host cells, in contrast to HDPs of free-living metazoans, which significantly hinders the use of the latter in preclinical and clinical studies in humans. Flatworm HDPs express a potent immunomodulatory activity, in contrast to nematode HDPs that express a potent antimicrobial activity, which might be a result of particular evolutionary adaptation, but this observation requires further investigation over a broader range of taxa. In silico prospecting of helminth genomes is a key for identifying known and novel HDP families, but it should be seconded by a functional screening approach. Parasitic helminths are destined to share niches with a variety of microbiota that inevitably influence their interaction with the host. To modulate the microbiome for their benefit and defend against pathogenic isolates, helminths have developed host defense peptides (HDPs) and proteins as integral elements of their immunity. These often exert a relatively nonspecific membranolytic activity toward bacteria, sometimes with limited or no toxicity toward host cells. With a few exceptions, such as nematode cecropin-like peptides and antibacterial factors (ABFs), helminthic HDPs are largely underexplored. This review scrutinizes current knowledge on the repertoire of such peptides in helminths and promotes their research as potential leads for an anti-infective solution to the burgeoning problem of antibiotic resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on cestode parasites in birds in Africa published in 1772–2022 in 177 works is summarised. The data of 434 cestode species belonging to 147 genera, 14 families and 3 orders are presented. For each species, the valid name, the synonyms used in the literature for Africa, bibliographic reference to the original records, names of the hosts and data on the geographical distribution on the continent are included. The cestode orders Dyphyllobothriidea and Tetrabothriidea are represented by one and seven species, respectively. The order Cyclophyllidea is represented by 426 species belonging to 146 genera and 12 families. The most species-rich families are Davaineidae (118 species), Hymenolepididae (105), Dilepididae (86) and Paruterinidae (50). In total, 333 species of birds belonging to 76 families and 27 orders have been recorded as hosts of cestodes in Africa. A host–parasite checklist is presented. The cestode complexes detected in avian orders are characterised by high levels of host specificity. The degree of knowledge of the avian cestode fauna of Africa is considered fragmentary and insufficient; it varies across countries, with the maximum number of species recorded in Egypt (112 species) and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (104 species). There are no records of avian cestodes for 19 African countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutria (or coypu, Myocastor coypus), is a semi-aquatic rodent that is native to South America and has been introduced almost all over the world since the end of the 19th century. In Europe, this rodent is considered an invasive species. In this report, we analyzed nutria fecal samples in a small coastal wetland of Central Italy, using different techniques (fresh smear, direct immunofluorescence, Baermann technique, flotation, ethyl acetate sedimentation) to obtain an arrangement of eukaryote endoparasites (Protozoa and Helminths) and compare them with data available in the literature for both Italy and worldwide. We recorded five taxa, with a dominant occurrence (>70%) of nematodes of the genus Strongyloides. Moreover, we reported for the first time in nutria a bronchopulmonary strongyle nematode (Muellerius vel. Angiostrongylus) and, for the first time in Italy, protozoans of the genus Cryptosporidium. Since nutria co-occurs with humans and domestic animals in the study area, we highlighted possible sanitary and management implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostic approaches has steadily increased in the field of parasitology in recent decades. The most recent large-scale technological modification of the PCR formula, also known as third-generation PCR, came in the form of digital PCR (dPCR). Currently, the most common form of dPCR on the market is digital droplet PCR (ddPCR). Unlike quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), the digital format allows for highly sensitive, absolute quantification of nucleic acid targets and does not require external standards to be included in the developed assays. Dividing each sample into thousands of compartments and using statistical models also eliminates the need for technical replicates. With unprecedented sensitivity and enforcement of binary endpoint reactions, ddPCR not only allows the use of tiny sample volumes (especially important when working with limited amounts of DNA) but also minimises the impact of variations in amplification efficiency and the presence of inhibitors. As ddPCR is characterised by excellent features such as high throughput, sensitivity and robust quantification, it is widely used as a diagnostic tool in clinical microbiology. Due to recent advances, both the theoretical background and the practical, current applications related to the quantification of nucleic acids of eukaryotic parasites need to be updated. In this review, we present the basics of this technology (particularly useful for new users) and consolidate recent advances in the field with a focus on applications to the study of helminths and protozoan parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within‐host parasite interactions can be mediated by the host and changes in host phenotypes often serve as indicators of the presence or intensity of parasite interactions.Parasites like helminths induce a range of physiological, morphological and immunological changes in hosts that can drive bottom‐up (resource‐mediated) or top‐down (immune‐mediated) interactions with co‐infecting parasites. Although top‐down and bottom‐up interactions are typically studied in isolation, the diverse phenotypic changes induced by parasite infection may serve as a useful tool for understanding if, and when, these processes act in concert.Using an anthelmintic treatment study of African buffalo, Syncerus caffer, we tracked changes in host immunological and morphological phenotypes during helminth‐coccidia co‐infection to investigate their role in driving independent and combinatorial bottom‐up and top‐down parasite interactions. We also examined repercussions for host fitness.Clearance of a blood‐sucking helminth, Haemonchus, from the host gastrointestinal tract induced a systemic Th2 immune phenotype, while clearance of a tissue‐feeding helminth, Cooperia, induced a systemic Th1 phenotype. Furthermore, the Haemonchus‐associated systemic Th2 immune phenotype drove simultaneous top‐down and bottom‐up effects that increased coccidia shedding by changing the immunological and morphological landscapes of the intestine.Higher coccidia shedding was associated with lower host body condition, a lower chance of pregnancy and older age at first pregnancy, suggesting that coccidia infection imposed significant condition and reproductive costs on the host.Our findings suggest that top‐down and bottom‐up interactions may commonly co‐occur and that tracking key host phenotypes that change in response to infection can help uncover complex pathways by which parasites interact. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We investigated the role of mullet as a biological tag to evaluate environmental status, mainly in a specific and circumscribed area, between March and June 2021, by conducting a survey of 150 mullet caught from Ganzirri Lagoon (Messina, Sicily, Italy), in order to describe the helminth fauna. All retrieved parasite specimens were investigated by morphological and molecular analysis. Morphological evaluation allowed us to describe the Acanthocephalan Neoechinorhynchus agilis; however, identification of the digenean trematode Haploporus benedeni was only possible using molecular analysis. None of the parasite species isolated in the present study presents a risk to human health. Mullets (Osteichthyes: Mugilidae) are a euryhaline species widely distributed all over the world, thus representing an excellent study model for host–parasite interactions. From March to June 2022, 150 mullets, belonging to Chelon labrosus (n = 99), Chelon auratus (n = 37), and Oedalechilus labeo (n = 14) species, were caught to identify the helminth parasite fauna of the different mullet species present in the Ganzirri Lagoon (Messina, Sicily, Italy). A parasitological evaluation of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) was carried out with a total worm count technique (TWC) to detect helminth presence. All collected parasites were stored in 70% ethanol until morphological evaluation, and frozen at −80 °C for subsequent molecular analysis, using 28S, ITS-2, 18S primers. The morphological evaluation allowed for the identification Acanthocephalan parasites (Neoechinorhynchus agilis) from two C. labrosus specimens. Sixty-six samples were positive for adult digenean trematodes (C. labrosus, 49.5 %; C. auratus, 27%, and O. labeo, 50%), molecularly identified as Haploporus benedeni. This study represents the first survey of helminthic parasite fauna of mullets from the south of Italy. The presence of Hydrobia sp. in the stomach contents of mullets allowed us to infer the H. benedeni life cycle in the Ganzirri lagoon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological associations between hosts and parasites are influenced by host exposure and susceptibility to parasites, and by parasite traits, such as transmission mode. Advances in network analysis allow us to answer questions about the causes and consequences of traits in ecological networks in ways that could not be addressed in the past.We used a network‐based framework (exponential random graph models or ERGMs) to investigate the biogeographic, phylogenetic and ecological characteristics of hosts and parasites that affect the probability of interactions among nonhuman primates and their parasites. Parasites included arthropods, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, viruses and helminths.We investigated existing hypotheses, along with new predictors and an expanded host–parasite database that included 213 primate nodes, 763 parasite nodes and 2319 edges among them. Analyses also investigated phylogenetic relatedness, sampling effort and spatial overlap among hosts.In addition to supporting some previous findings, our ERGM approach demonstrated that more threatened hosts had fewer parasites, and notably, that this effect was independent of hosts also having a smaller geographic range. Despite having fewer parasites, threatened host species shared more parasites with other hosts, consistent with loss of specialist parasites and threat arising from generalist parasites that can be maintained in other, non‐threatened hosts. Viruses, protozoa and helminths had broader host ranges than bacteria, or fungi, and parasites that infect non‐primates had a higher probability of infecting more primate species.The value of the ERGM approach for investigating the processes structing host–parasite networks provided a more complete view on the biogeographic, phylogenetic and ecological traits that influence parasite species richness and parasite sharing among hosts. The results supported some previous analyses and revealed new associations that warrant future research, thus revealing how hosts and parasites interact to form ecological networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Iberian Peninsula is one of the most humanized areas in Europe, yet humans may cohabit with large predators, such as the Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus), at the expense of many contributions to its conservation. The limited wolves' territory leads to a close relationship between this wild species, humans, and other animals, which may promote the spillover of pathogens, such as gastrointestinal parasites. This review intends to provide an update concerning gastrointestinal parasite findings performed using coprological methods on fecal samples from Iberian wolves. Studies conducted in Portugal and Spain through coprology presented a prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of 57.0–100% in Spain and 21.5–68.3% in Portugal. Parasites belonging to Protozoa, Trematoda, Cestoda, and Nematoda were specified, alongside thirteen genera and twenty species of gastrointestinal parasites. In this study, 76.9% (10/13) of genera and 65.0% (13/20) of species of gastrointestinal parasites were identified as having zoonotic potential. These results highlight that further studies are needed to better understand the parasitic agents circulating in the wild in humanized areas, such as the Iberian Peninsula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published studies and ten new unpublished records included herein reveal that approximately 174 species of endoparasites (helminths and protozoans) are known from 65 of 163 species of rodents that occupy the subterranean ecotope globally. Of those, 94 endoparasite species were originally described from these rodents. A total of 282 host-parasite associations are summarized from four major zoogeographic regions including Ethiopian, Palearctic/Oriental, Nearctic, and Neotropical. Thirty-four parasite records from the literature have been identified to only the level of the genus. In this summary, ten new records have been added, and the most current taxonomic status of each parasite species is noted. Interestingly, there are no data on endoparasites from more than 68% of described subterranean rodents, which indicates that discovery and documentation are at an early stage and must continue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high seroprevalence values detected in the three wild ungulate species analyzed suggested that the complex interplay of hosts and eco-epidemiological niches, along with the optimal climatic conditions for the oocysts' survival, may favor the spread of the parasite in its host community in the study area. Yin et al. [[10]] investigated the potential host selection of the tropical rat gamasid mite ( I Ornithonyssus bacoti i ) on different animal hosts and the distribution in different environmental gradients in Yunnan Province of Southwest China. Macro and micro-parasites are integrated into ecosystems worldwide and are considered important elements of biodiversity. Knowledge of parasites affecting human, domestic, and wild animal species requires, therefore, a deep understanding of the complex network created by the interactions between these pathogens, host species, and ecosystems. [Extracted from the article]