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The field of veterinary entomology is dominated by research concerning insects and arthropods that negatively impact the health of domestic animals. A curated selection of peer-reviewed research which was highlighted at the 2022 Joint Meeting between the Entomological Society of America, the Entomological Society of Canada, and the Entomological Society of British Columbia, which prioritized exploring entomology through the lens of art, science, and culture are summarized. Articles are categorized into (i) biting and non-biting flies, (ii) ectoparasites, and (iii) review articles, with the overall goal of showcasing innovative methodologies, addressing overlooked questions in veterinary entomology, and highlighting comprehensive reviews. While not exhaustive, the selected studies represent a myriad of arthropods, methodologies, and perspectives, to inspire future scientists with diverse research avenues and emphasize the continual evolution and importance of entomological studies in today's world.

The common cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus causes severe limitations to livestock production. Bovine genetics could be a decisive component for the success or failure of control programs for ticks and diseases transmitted. The objective of this work was to detect chromosomal regions associated with host resistance to R. microplus through an associative mapping study using medium and high density microarrays in a population of Argentine Creole cattle. The phenotypic record of the number of ticks that completed their development on the host, after artificial infestations, was obtained during 2015 to 2020. Genomic DNA was extracted for genotyping from 192 animals using Affymetrix high (Axiom™ Bos 1) and medium density (ArBos1) microarrays. In an exploratory study, chromosomal regions containing putative quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were recognized on chromosomes 27, 11, 10, 9, 16, 13, 3, 19, 8 and 18, associated with the variation of R. microplus load. Gene ontology based on genes located on these regions revealed an enrichment of terms and pathways for the immune system, blood coagulation, tissue regeneration, endopeptidase activity and protein phosphorylation. The information obtained in this work constitutes a first report of QTLs for tick count in the Argentine Creole cattle, and contributes with the knowledge about the underlying process involved in tick resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research Highlight: Knutie, S., Bahouth, R., Bertone, M., Webb, C., Mehta, M., Nahom, M., Barta, R., Ghai, S., Love, A., Horan, S., Soldo, A., Cochrane, E., Bartholomew, J., Cowan, E., Bjerke, H., Balenger, S., Butler, M., Cornell, A., Kennedy, A., Rolland, V., Schultz, E., Stanback, M., Taff, C., Albery, G. (2024). Understanding spatiotemporal effects of food supplementation on host–parasite interactions using community‐based science. Journal of Animal Ecology. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365‐2656.14155. Wildlife have become increasingly dependent on anthropogenic food supplementation, resulting in altered nutritional intake and inter‐ and intraspecific interactions. Subsequently, supplemental feeding can affect both the immunological function of individuals and transmission dynamics among individuals and species. The magnitude of the effect supplemental feeding has on disease is likely to vary across time and space with the nutritional demands of hosts. However, the broad temporal or spatial scale effects of supplementation are poorly understood. Recently, Knutie et al. (2024) introduced their citizen science program, the Nest Parasite Community Project, a broadscale coordinated effort by scientists and the public to monitor box nesting wild birds and their ectoparasites across the eastern United States. The authors amassed an impressive 4‐year data set with hundreds of nests spanning the entire US breeding range of Eastern bluebirds (Sialia sialis). In the first study to come from the project, the authors demonstrate that the effects of food supplementation on host–parasite interactions vary across time and space and do not consistently influence host–parasite outcomes, highlighting that host–parasite interactions are often context dependent and influenced by many environmental factors (e.g. weather and habitat quality). The authors also found that supplemental feeding increases host fitness, regardless of parasitism. The study provides strong evidence that citizen science projects can help broaden our understanding of how human food sources influence wildlife disease in various environmental contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.) and Ctenocephalides felis are among the most important year-round ectoparasites of dogs. The persistent efficacy of one treatment with fluralaner injectable suspension (Bravecto® 150 mg/ml powder and solvent for suspension for dogs, referred to as Bravecto® injectable) was investigated in a negative-controlled, randomised, partially blinded 12-month laboratory study. Methods: A total of 20 dogs were randomly allocated to two equal groups (treatment and control). Treatment-group dogs were injected subcutaneously on study day 0 with the investigational veterinary product at the recommended dose of 15 mg fluralaner/kg body weight (0.1 mL/kg), whereas the control group dogs received saline solution (0.1 mL/kg). Each dog was infested with 50 (25 female, 25 male) adult R. sanguineus s.l. and 100 adult C. felis 2 days before treatment, 5 and 28 days after treatment, and then once monthly for a 12-month period. Live tick and flea counts were performed 48 h after treatment or subsequent infestation, respectively. Efficacy was determined by comparing arithmetic means of the treatment group tick and flea counts with those of the control group. Infestation was considered adequate if at least 25.0% of ticks and 40.0% of fleas were recovered from at least six dogs in the control group at the respective assessment times. Results: Adequate R. sanguineus s.l. and C. felis infestations of control group dogs were observed at each time point. Arithmetic mean treatment group values were significantly lower than those of the control group at all time points. The immediate efficacy when treating existing infestations of R. sanguineus s.l. and C. felis (infestation 2 days before treatment), was 49.7% and 89.7%, respectively. The persistent efficacy against post-treatment re-infestations was 94.4–100% against R. sanguineus s.l. and 92.2–100% against C. felis. Seven dogs in the control group developed flea allergy dermatitis due to the repeated re-infestations over the study period, whereas no dogs in the treatment group were affected. No clinically relevant side effects were observed over the entire study period. Conclusions: The fluralaner injectable suspension (Bravecto® injectable) provides 1 year of efficacy against R. sanguineus s.l. and C. felis infestations in dogs following a single treatment, allowing once-yearly treatment, which can significantly improve owner compliance with year-round protection of dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Vector‐borne diseases pose a significant threat to human and animal health worldwide, with arthropods, including fleas and lice, acting as key vectors for transmitting various pathogens. In Uzbekistan, where millions of domestic dogs coexist with humans, the diversity of vector‐borne pathogens carried by ectoparasites remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the diversity and prevalence of lice and pathogens carried by fleas and lice collected from domestic dogs in Uzbekistan. Ectoparasites were collected from 77 dogs across five regions and subjected to morphological identification and molecular analysis. The 47 lice collected were identified as Trichodectes canis Fabricius, 1780 (Psocodea: Trichodectidae), Linognathus africanus Kellogg and Paine, 1911 (Psocodea: Linognathidae) and Bovicola bovis Linnaeus, 1758 (Phthiraptera: Trichodectidae), alongside with 197 fleas. Notably, L. africanus was detected for the first time on dogs worldwide. Molecular screening detected Rickettsia spp. in 27.9% fleas and 44.7% lice, Dipylidium caninum Linnaeus, 1758 (Cyclophyllidea: Dipylidiidae) in 1.5% of fleas and Bartonella spp. in 0.5% of fleas. Sequencing confirmed Rickettsia asembonensisMaina et al., 2016 (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae), Rickettsia helvetica Beati et al., 1993 (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae), Rickettsia monacensis Simser et al., 2019 (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae), D. caninum and Bartonella clarridgeiae Lawson and Collins, 1996 (Hyphomicrobiales: Bartonellaceae). These findings highlight the potential role of dogs as reservoirs for vector‐borne pathogens and emphasises the need for further research to inform effective disease control strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The paper presents the results of studies on the distribution of the parasitic quill mite species Bubophilus aluconis (Acariformes: Syringophilidae) in the feather quills of the Western Palaearctic owls of the genus Strix, that is, tawny owl S. aluco, collected in Poland and Sweden, the Ural owl S. uralensis, from Poland, Sweden, and Finland, and the great grey owl S. nebulosa, from Sweden and Finland. The two latter species are new hosts for B. aluconis. Methods: Feather samples of the tawny owl, Ural owl, and great grey owl used in this study come from Prof. Marian Cieślak's private collection, which contains feathers of Western Palearctic birds of prey and owls. Each of the 77 tawny owl, 75 Ural owl, and 55 great grey owl specimens are represented either by whole dry wings or a full complement of flight feathers (primaries (P) and secondaries (S)) and tails (rectrices (R)). Particular types of feathers were coded as follows: Ps, Ss, R, primary greater upperwing coverts (PGUppC), secondary greater upperwing coverts (SGUppC), primary greater underwing coverts (PGUndrC), secondary greater underwing coverts (SGUndrC), uppertail coverts (UppTC), and undertail coverts (UndrTC). Results: The prevalence was relatively low for all of the examined birds, that is, 12% for S. uralensis (N = 79), 2.6% for S. aluco (N = 77), and 3.6% for S. nebulosa (N = 55). In total, we examined 37,260 flight feathers and coverts. The mite B. aluconis occupied only the inner S of the tawny owl, secondary greater under and upperwing coverts of the great grey owl, and inner Ss, primary and secondary upperwing coverts, UndrTC, and coverts from the scapulars of the Ural owl. Conclusion: We hypothesise that the absence of these parasites in the examined P, S, and R suggests that these feather types might be unsuitable for the mites due to their thick quill walls, preventing successful feeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The Syringophilidae family is one of the most diverse groups of prostigmatic mites (Acari: Prostigmata) parasitising birds. In this paper, we describe a new genus and species, Corvisyringophilus krummi, which parasitises the Common Raven (Corvus corax) in Iceland. This new genus belongs to a group of primitive genera that retain a complete set of idiosomal and leg setae. Our phylogenetic analysis suggests that Corvisyringophilus is morphologically closely related to the genera Blaszakia Skoracki & Sikora, 2008 and Charadriphilus Bochkov & Mironov, 1998, which are associated with birds of different and phylogenetically unrelated orders: Musophagiformes and Charadriiformes, respectively. This research highlights the importance of examining the genus Corvus in order to better understand the specialised host–parasite relationships. Furthermore, the study emphasises the significance of using museum collections to study parasitic interactions. Syringophilidae is one of the most species-rich families in the superfamily Cheyletoidea, comprising approximately 420 species across 62 genera and two subfamilies. In this paper, we propose a new genus, Corvisyringophilus, and a new species, C. krummi gen. n. et sp. n., found in the wing covert quills of the Common Raven, Corvus corax Linnaeus, in Iceland. Corvisyringophilus is placed among the primitive genera of syringophilid mites, which possess the full complement of idiosomal and leg setae. Phylogenetic analysis based on morphological characters suggests that this genus forms a sister clade to Blaszakia Skoracki & Sikora, 2008, and Charadriphilus Bochkov & Mironov, 1998, which inhabit birds of the orders Musophagiformes and Charadriiformes, respectively. The study proposes that the current distribution patterns of quill mites, based on their morphological characteristics, may result from multiple host switching followed by co-speciation events, highlighting the complex evolutionary dynamics within this family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the first record of mutual allogrooming in free-ranging wild northern red muntjac (Muntiacus vaginalis) from dense tropical forests of Similipal Tiger Reserve, Odisha, India. This observation is similar to reciprocal allogrooming behaviour between social partners, reported only in Impala (Aepyceros melampus) in free-ranging conditions. We video-recorded cooperative allogrooming between two female (one adult and another juvenile) northern red muntjacs. Behavioural quantification suggests that although both individuals exchanged equal numbers of grooming bouts, the adult female received a greater share of grooming time and episodes, respectively. The time spent on grooming as well as the number of tongue strokes delivered were found to be negatively correlated between the two individuals. The grooming pattern could possibly be attributed to kin selection and detailed work is required to understand this behaviour in this poorly-studied primitive deer. Our record indicates the possible existence of cooperative allogrooming in other ungulates of the Order Artiodactyla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factors that influence the parasite load in a host bat include sex, age, reproductive condition, health, and body condition. Among the ectoparasitic mites found on bats, species from the family Chirodiscidae are commonly observed on molossid bats. This study aimed to analyse the parasitism of Dentocarpus silvai on Molossus molossus in two roosts, discussing the ecology of the host–ectoparasite relationship. We sampled a colony of M. molossus sheltering in the roof lining of a house and in the hollow of a Mangifera indica tree located on Itacuruçá Island, Rio de Janeiro state, southeastern Brazil. A total of 495 D. silvai were collected from 176 M. molossus. Parasitological indices (mean intensity and prevalence) were higher in the tree hollow than in the roof lining, with females being more heavily parasitized than males. Among the six models evaluated, bat abundance best explained the variation in the number of mites. The dispersal success and infestation of D. silvai are associated with roost commuting by individuals (mainly females) of M. molossus that favours the infestation of new bats, which may extend the parasite occurrence. The present study is the first to analyse the infestation of D. silvai on a host species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chewing lice infesting avian hosts can significantly affect host health and fitness. Here, we present quantitative data on host body condition and louse abundance observed from 121 Rough-legged Hawks (Buteo lagopus) sampled across the North American nonbreeding range. Among hawks examined, louse prevalence was 71%, with a mean abundance and intensity of 9.1 and 12.8 lice, respectively. We identified lice as Craspedorrhynchus sp., either Craspedorrhynchus dilatatus ог Craspedorrhynchus taurocephalus, dependent on future taxonomic revision of the genus. Female and juvenile hawks had greater louse intensity and prevalence compared with male and adult hawks, respectively. Host body condition, measured as a breast muscle score (keel score), was negatively correlated with louse abundance after controlling for host age and sex. Possible explanations for these patterns include the following: sex-biased louse transfer between adults and nestlings, when female nestlings experience increased transfer loads; body size differences between males and females, when females are larger than males in each life stage; and preening limitations in females and juveniles, when both spend more time hunting and less time preening relative to adult males. Our results corroborate previous studies suggesting that the primary sources of intraspecific variation in louse abundance are host body size and preening limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Great Crested Flycatchers (Myiarchus L crinitus), migratory passerines with a breeding range throughout the northeastern, midwestern, and southern US, are banded annually at the Braddock Bay Bird Observatory located on the P southern shore of Lake Ontario, New York, USA. a In 2016, a Great Crested Flycatcher was observed with distinct lesions in the gular and ventral neck region, which prompted evaluation for similar lesions in subsequently trapped flycatchers and other passerine species. From 2016 to 2023, 62/ 102 banded Great Crested Flycatchers had their gular region examined, and seven were found to have lesions (11.3% incidence). Similar lesions were not found in any other species. Lesions were localized to the gular region and included extensive feather loss with thickened, corrugated, pale-yellow skin. Grossly visible 1 to 2-mm- (5 diameter, raised, white-to-yellow foci throughout the affected region corresponded microscopically to feather follicles that were massively dilated with mites. Morphologic analysis of mites obtained from skin scrapes revealed that this mite species belongs to the family Harpirhynchidae. Mites in this family have restricted avian host ranges and cause varying clinical presentations in passerines, though many species remain unidentified. PCR efforts were unsuccessful in yielding a species- level identification. Further monitoring of Great Crested Flycatchers and other avian species is warranted, as the fitness implications of this ectoparasitism at the individual and population levels are not known. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the presence of ectoparasites in stranded cetaceans along the coast of Sergipe, Brazil. The parasitological material, dates and informations about the hosts was obtained from a biological collection. Were analysed four Megaptera novaeangliae, one of Sotalia guianensis, and one of Peponocephala electra. A total of 264 ectoparasites were collected from these carcasses – 263 amphipods of the species Cyamus boopis and Syncyamus ilheusensis, and a single cymothoid isopod, identified as Livoneca redmanii. C. boopis showed a average intensity of 77.0 parasites per host, and a prevalence of 100% in the analysed humpback whale carcasses, representing the first record of this louse species on humpback whales in the region. S. ilheusensis appears to have a rare occurrence and specificity to the host P. electra, being its third report in the scientific literature. Additionally, the discovery of the isopod L. redmanii on Sotalia guianensis is unprecedented, being the first report of an isopod parasitizing this cetacean and expanding our knowledge about the host flexibility of this ectoparasite. The attachment of the isopod to the dolphin's skin was likely favored by the absence of mucus, as found in fish. These findings provide new insights into the ecology of these ectoparasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Games are wild animals often referred to as "bushmeat" when killed, primarily for personal consumption and/or monetary exchange. Parasites of games, such as protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites, have not always been reported; however, they are essentially zoonotic, thereby putting animal and human populations at risk whenever present. The lack of information on these parasites, as well as the danger of their presence, necessitated this study to provide baseline data regarding the area, as well as information on possible zoonosis at the human-animalenvironment interface. Physical examination was conducted on animals brought from hunting sprees to the "bushmeat" market during which all visible ectoparasites were harvested and were kept in 70% ethanol, samples were harvested from portions of the gastrointestinal tract of freshly killed games and transferred into well-labelled containers by ligation of each portion to assay for Gastrointestinal Parasites (GIP). The samples were analysed using centrifugal flotation for GIP and morphology for ectoparasite identification. Grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus) and Antelope (Maxwell's duiker, Philantomba maxwellii) were examined during the study period, with 90.9% and 66.7% mixed and 9% and 25% mono infections, respectively. GIP eggs were Strongyle (36.4%, 25%), Trichuris (45.5%, 16.7%), Haemonchus (18.2%, 16.7%), Strongyloides (18.2%, 16.7%), Ascaridia (9%, 16.7%), and Eimeria (63.6%, 75%) in Grasscutter and Antelope, respectively, whereas Moniezia (25%), Taenia (16,7%), and Hookworm (18.2%) occurred only in the antelope, with the highest infection in the ileum and colon (63.6%), and rectum (83%) of Grasscutter and antelope, respectively. Four genera of ticks were identified: Amblyomma (41%), Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (20.5%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus (17.9%), Haemaphysalis (12.8%), and Hyalomma (7.7%). The presence of zoonotic GIP and ticks, which are known vectors of various diseases, calls for further studies, education, and awareness among the hunting community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted on the species diversity of ectoparasites of cattle, sheep, and goats in the Northern and Central zones of Ebonyi State, Southeastern Nigeria. A total of 710 livestock (280 cattle, 200 sheep, and 230 goats) were examined in the two zones using standard entomological methods and a half-body tick count technique to determine the whole-body tick burden. The results showed that out of 440 animals in Ebonyi, 336 (76.3%) were infected, and out of 270 animals in Ebonyi Central, 234 (86.6%) were infected. The Ectoparasite infestation showed that 170 (85.0%) white Fulani cattle, 63 (31.5%) sheep, and 103 goats (51.5 %) were infested with different species of ectoparasites. A total of 709 visible individual ectoparasites were collected from the northern Ebonyi area. Hyalomma dromedarii 188 (26.5%) had the highest number of counts, whereas, in Ebonyi central, 171 ticks were collected from local breed cattle. Ambylomma variegatum 59 (34.5%) had the highest number of counts. Rhipicephalus appendiculatum had the highest diversity (1.60) in Ebonyi North, whereas Ambylomma variegatum and Ambylomma hebraeum shared similar diversity (1.37) in Ebonyi Central. The results obtained from this study helped in determining the ectoparasite species abundance in this area and were added to the entomological database which will help in the control of ectoparasites and tick-borne diseases of livestock in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study investigates the complex interactions between quill mites of the family Syringophilidae and starlings. We identified five species of quill mites infesting 24 species of starlings, uncovering intricate host–parasite dynamics across the Palaearctic, Afrotropical, Oriental, and Oceanian zoogeographical regions. A detailed statistical analysis of the Picobiinae–Sturnidae network revealed low connectivity but high modularity, indicating specific relationships between the mites and their starling hosts. The network structure demonstrated four distinct modules, highlighting the specialised and compartmentalised characteristics of these associations. Furthermore, the distribution of Picobia mites was found to align with the phylogeny of their starling hosts, with particular mites targeting specific starling clades. The social and breeding behaviours of starlings were observed to contribute to the high prevalence of these mites. This comprehensive network analysis provides new insights into the ecological dynamics of host–parasite interactions. The subfamily Picobiinae (Acariformes: Syringophilidae) comprises obligate and permanent parasites of birds found exclusively in the quills of contour feathers. We studied associations of picobiine mites with birds of the family Sturnidae (Aves: Passeriformes) across the Palaearctic, Afrotropical, Oriental, and Oceanian zoogeographical regions. Among the 414 examined bird individuals belonging to 44 species (35.2% of all sturnids), 103 individuals from 24 species (54.5% of examined species) were parasitised by quill mites. The diversity of mites was represented by five species, including one newly described, Picobia malayi Patan and Skoracki sp. n. Statistical analysis of the Picobiinae–Sturnidae bipartite network demonstrated a low connectance value (Con = 0.20) and high modularity, with significant differences in the H2′ specialisation index compared to null model values. The network structure, characterised by four distinct modules, highlighted the specificity and limited host range of the Picobiinae–Sturnidae associations. The distribution of Picobia species among starlings was congruent with the phylogeny of their hosts, with different mites parasitising specific clades of starlings. Additionally, the findings suggest that the social and breeding behaviours of starlings influence quite a high prevalence. Finally, our studies support the validity of museum collections to study these parasitic interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevated concentrations of contaminants have negative impacts on aquatic organisms and their parasites. Changes in parasite infections have been proposed as a technique for monitoring the health of aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, alterations in physiological responses (biomarkers) of organisms have also been used to delineate ecosystem quality. Lake Heritage is situated along the Crocodile River in Muldersdrift, Gauteng, South Africa, and is subject to contamination by acid mine drainage. Clarias gariepinus is a well‐studied bioindicator species and host to numerous endoparasites and ectoparasites. The aims of this study were to delineate the health status of Lake Heritage through a multifaceted approach by comparing the water quality, biomarker responses, and parasite biodiversity of C. gariepinus, compared to unexposed laboratory‐reared fish. Physical and chemical water quality parameters were determined using a hand‐held probe, test kits, and element analysis with inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. Biomarker responses in the gill, liver, and muscle tissues from C. gariepinus were assessed for total protein, metallothioneins, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) concentrations and activities of acetylcholinesterase and catalase. Results for water quality variables showed higher pH, nitrate, hardness, and copper levels compared with the South African Target Water Quality Guidelines. Catalase activity and concentrations of SOD and reduced GSH showed a response in C. gariepinus to the water quality. Ectoparasites had lower prevalence and mean intensity than endoparasites. However, there were no differences in the physiological responses between infected and uninfected hosts. The study shows that the eutrophic conditions in Lake Heritage cause biomarker responses in the host when compared to host fish in laboratory conditions. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:1539–1553. © 2023 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC). Key Points: The water quality in this river is impacted by acid mine drainage (AMD), sporadic treatment of AMD, point‐source pollution, and runoff.Inhibition of acetylcholine esterase activity in Clarias gariepinus implies that organophosphate and carbamates are also entering the system, and the lake is eutrophic.Ectoparasite infection intensity, number, and diversity are reduced, while endoparasite numbers and diversity are higher.Water quality has a greater impact on the physiological response of the host, compared to the effect caused by the endoparasites or ectoparasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The flea Ctenocephalides felis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae), parasitizes dogs and cats globally, acting as a vector for various pathogens affecting both animals and humans. Growing interest in environmentally friendly, plant-based products prompted this study. The aim of the study was to determine the chemical composition of essential oils (EOs) from Copaifera reticulata, Citrus paradisi, Lavandula hybrida and Salvia sclarea, assessing their insecticidal and repellent properties, determining lethal concentrations (LC50 and LC90), and evaluating residual efficacy in vitro against Ctenocephalides felis felis. Methods: Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detector analyzed EO composition. In vitro tests involved preparing EO solutions at various concentrations. Ten specimens from each life stage (egg, larva, pupa, adult) were used for insecticidal activity assessment. Adulticidal activity was assessed using 10 cm2 filter paper strip, each treated with 0.200 mL of the test solution. Immature stages activities were evaluated using 23.76 cm2 discs of the same filter paper, each treated with 0.470 mL of the test solution. Mortality percentage was calculated using (number of dead insects × 100) / number of incubated insects. Probit analysis calculated LC50 values with a 95% confidence interval. Results: Major EO constituents were β-caryophyllene (EOCR), linalool (EOLH), linalyl acetate (EOSS), and limonene (EOCP). LC50 values were obtained for all stages except for the essential oil of C. paradisi. All oils showed repellent activity at 800 μg/cm2. OECR exhibited greater residual efficacy. Conclusion: Each EO demonstrated superior insecticidal activity against specific C. felis felis stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasites are facing a loss in biodiversity in a changing climate. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the influence of climate change on Hoplias malabaricus and its species of monogenetic and digenetic parasites. The models were developed for South America and the species occurrence data were obtained from databases and digital platforms. The bioclimatic, edaphic, elevation, and slope variables were obtained from specialized platforms. Thus, to generate species distribution models, Support Vector Machine, Random Forest and Generalized Linear Model algorithms were used. All predictions of the model for a species were combined to obtain its final model (Ensemble) for the present and future scenarios. As a result, definitive hosts of the parasites showed high climatic suitability. The broad niche of these species indicated that these organisms can show certain opportunistic and generalist characteristics. Unlike their parasites that revealed a more restricted distribution than their host. Also, in a future scenario, endoparasite species will generally reduce 99% of their populations, ectoparasites 93%, while some hosts will increase their populations. In conclusion, the study assumed that future climatic events can influence parasites and their hosts differently, whereas anthropization can influence parasite extinction even without directly affecting their hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stick-tight fleas, Echidnophaga gallinacea (Westwood), are major ectoparasites of domesticated chickens and can cause serious diseases and even death if left untreated. In the present study the flea samples were collected from three traditional chicken-raising farms in the Al-Baha region. The samples were examined under a stereomicroscope and identified using classification keys. After extracting DNA from the insects, the polymerase chain reaction technique was used to identify the hereditary gene, cytochrome oxidase, present in the insect biopics. The gene was purified, its nucleotide sequence was obtained, and the accession number (OR161051) has been assigned in GenBank. After determining its nucleotide sequence, it was compared with other insects in GenBank, where it was found to be identical (99.82%) to the E. gallinacea isolate from Thailand recorded in GenBank [OQ291364 and MW492259 (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/nucleotide/MW492259.1?report=genbank&log$=nucltop&blast%5frank=1&RID=VJR9ZAEE013)]. The match was 94.33% with Echidnophaga iberica from Spain (KF479239) and 93.97% with Echidnophaga oschanini from China (KU880666). The phylogenetic tree also showed similarities between the Saudi Arabian isolates and other isolates. This genetic study of sticktight fleas is the first of its kind in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, therefore will be valuable for assessing the prevalence and geographical distribution of this parasite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to monitor the prevalence of ectoparasites and bacterial infestations in carp and to determine effective dosages of a new iodine-based treatment for disease prevention. The research found that carp were affected by ectoparasites G. kobayashii at 43.32%, L. cyprinacea at 46.67%, and P. lusiana at 31.71% in fish farming facilities within the Sumy Region. Treatment with the iodine-based product resulted in a reduction of infestation levels to 0.2%, including a decrease in the incidence of gyrodactylosis by 89.92-97.35%, lernaeosis by 79.13-95.91%, and philometroidosis by 81.30-91.16% compared to monitoring results. In investigations of bacterial infestations, it was found that the contamination of carp was higher for E. coli at the PC 'Shmatukha' by 8.0%, Aeromonas hydrophila by 47.97%, and Aeromonas salmonicida by 31.39%. Additionally, Pseudomonas anguilliseptica was detected at 19.48%, Streptococcus iniae at 13.27%, and Micrococcus spp. at 38.14% at LLC 'Ryasnyanske'. The presence of Staphylococcus aureus was recorded at 21.37%, and Listeria monocytogenes at 11.43% at LLC 'Bdzhola'; these figures were lower than those observed in other farms. Following treatment with the iodine-based agent, contamination of fish by E. coli decreased by 98.96% at the PC 'Shmatukha', 99.2% at LLC 'Bdzhola', and 84.32% at LLC 'Ryasnyanske'. Contamination of carp by A. hydrophila decreased by 94.51% at the PC 'Shmatukha', 80.28% at LLC 'Bdzhola', and 99.15% at LLC 'Ryasnyanske'. The presence of A. salmonicida was reduced by 97.23% at the PC 'Shmatukha', 94.00% at LLC 'Bdzhola', and 79.06% at LLC 'Ryasnyanske'. Contamination by S. aureus decreased by 92.15% at the PC 'Shmatukha', 98.74% at LLC 'Bdzhola', and 93.89% at LLC 'Ryasnyanske'. The levels of S. iniae decreased by 80.90% at the PC 'Shmatukha', 99.63% at LLC 'Bdzhola', and 83.30% at LLC 'Ryasnyanske'. Contamination by L. monocytogenes was reduced by 96.25% at the PC 'Shmatukha', 96.08% at LLC 'Bdzhola', and 98.13% at LLC 'Ryasnyanske'. Furthermore, Micrococcus spp. levels decreased by 93.74% at the PC 'Shmatukha', 96.37% at LLC 'Bdzhola', and 92.26% at LLC 'Ryasnyanske', in comparison to the monitoring results. The practical value of this study lies in controlling the spread of ectoparasites and developing preventive measures to eliminate ectoparasites and bacterial infestations in carp prior to their release into water bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.) and Ctenocephalides felis are among the most important year-round ectoparasites of dogs. The persistent efficacy of one treatment with fluralaner injectable suspension (Bravecto® 150 mg/ml powder and solvent for suspension for dogs, referred to as Bravecto® injectable) was investigated in a negative-controlled, randomised, partially blinded 12-month laboratory study. Methods A total of 20 dogs were randomly allocated to two equal groups (treatment and control). Treatment-group dogs were injected subcutaneously on study day 0 with the investigational veterinary product at the recommended dose of 15 mg fluralaner/kg body weight (0.1 mL/kg), whereas the control group dogs received saline solution (0.1 mL/kg). Each dog was infested with 50 (25 female, 25 male) adult R. sanguineus s.l. and 100 adult C. felis 2 days before treatment, 5 and 28 days after treatment, and then once monthly for a 12-month period. Live tick and flea counts were performed 48 h after treatment or subsequent infestation, respectively. Efficacy was determined by comparing arithmetic means of the treatment group tick and flea counts with those of the control group. Infestation was considered adequate if at least 25.0% of ticks and 40.0% of fleas were recovered from at least six dogs in the control group at the respective assessment times. Results Adequate R. sanguineus s.l. and C. felis infestations of control group dogs were observed at each time point. Arithmetic mean treatment group values were significantly lower than those of the control group at all time points. The immediate efficacy when treating existing infestations of R. sanguineus s.l. and C. felis (infestation 2 days before treatment), was 49.7% and 89.7%, respectively. The persistent efficacy against post-treatment re-infestations was 94.4–100% against R. sanguineus s.l. and 92.2–100% against C. felis. Seven dogs in the control group developed flea allergy dermatitis due to the repeated re-infestations over the study period, whereas no dogs in the treatment group were affected. No clinically relevant side effects were observed over the entire study period. Conclusions The fluralaner injectable suspension (Bravecto® injectable) provides 1 year of efficacy against R. sanguineus s.l. and C. felis infestations in dogs following a single treatment, allowing once-yearly treatment, which can significantly improve owner compliance with year-round protection of dogs. Graphical Abstract

Anaplasmosis is a disease in dogs caused by intracellular gram-negative bacteria belonging to the Anaplasmataceae family. A 6-month-old mixed-breed golden retriever was examined at the Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Udayana University, with complaints of itching, tick infestation, weakness, and decreased appetite. The clinical examination revealed pale mucous membranes in the mouth and eye conjunctiva, as well as an infestation of Rhipicephalus ticks on the skin. Routine hematological examination indicated the presence of anemia and thrombocytopenia. Blood smear examination confirmed the presence of Anaplasma sp. Treatment was provided in a causative and supportive manner. Causative therapy involved the administration of doxycycline at a dose of 10 mg/kg body weight orally for twenty-eight days, ivermectin at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg body weight injected subcutaneously every two weeks for four weeks. Supportive therapy included the daily administration of Fufang E'jiao Jiang ®(Dong E Ejiao Co, Ltd., Shandong, China) at 2 ml/day and Sangobion® (PT. Merck Tbk, Jakarta, Indonesia) at one tablet per day for fourteen days. Treatment with doxycycline, ivermectin, Fufang E'jiao Jiang® (Dong E Ejiao Co, Ltd., Shandong, China), and Sangobion® (PT. Merck Tbk, Jakarta, Indonesia) resulted in a positive outcome for the dog, with improved activity, hair growth, good appetite, and the absence of ticks.

Research into various bacterial pathogens that can be transmitted between different animals and may have zoonotic potential has led to the discovery of different strains of Bartonella sp. in bats and their associated ectoparasites. Despite their enormous species diversity, only a few studies have focussed on the detection of bacterial pathogens in insectivorous bats of boreal forests and their associated Macronyssidae and Spinturnicidae mites. We collected and molecularly analysed mite samples from forest‐dwelling bat species distributed all along the boreal belt of the Palearctic, from Central Europe to Far East. Ectoparasitic mites were pooled for DNA extraction and DNA amplification polymerase chain reaction (PCRs) were conducted to detect the presence of various bacterial (Anaplasmataceae, Bartonella sp., Rickettsia sp., Mycoplasma sp.) and protozoal (Hepatozoon sp.) pathogens. Bartonella sp. DNA was detected in four different mite species (Macronyssidae: Steatonyssus periblepharus and Spinturnicidae: Spinturnix acuminata, Sp. myoti and Sp. mystacinus), with different prevalences of the targeted gene (gltA, 16‐23S ribosomal RNA intergenic spacer and ftsZ). Larger pools (>5 samples pooled) were more likely to harbour Bartonella sp. DNA, than smaller ones. In addition, cave‐dwelling bat hosts and host generalist mite species are more associated with Bartonella spp. presence. Spinturnicidae mites may transmit several distinct Bartonella strains, which cluster phylogenetically close to Bartonella species known to cause diseases in humans and livestock. Mites with ubiquitous presence may facilitate the long‐term maintenance (and even local recurrence) of Bartonella‐infestations inside local bat populations, thus acting as continuous reservoirs for Bartonella spp in bats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the species composition of bat flies (Diptera: Nycteribiidae) in Belarus and to indicate their areas of distribution and hosts. To establish the taxonomic position of Belarusian specimens of Nycteribiidae.Own collection of bat flies, collected in 2019–2023 in Belarus. Species identification was carried out both by morphological characteristics and using molecular genetic methods.There species preferences on hosts of bat flies in Belarus: P. monoceros is found mainly on M. dasycneme, recorded in the northern part of the country; N. kolenatii is widespread throughout Belarus, and recorded only on the M. daubentonii. Deviations of some morphological characteristics from the keys and descriptions of the species of the N. kolenatii individuals studied were revealed. The individuals presented in GenBank as N. kolenatii represent three different genetic lines. The Belarusian samples belong to the central haplotype KH1.Bat flies in Belarus were found on two species of bats: M. daubentonii and M. dasycneme. The genetic heterogeneity of representatives of N. kolenatii and the detected variability of taxonomically significant morphological characters may indicate both incorrect species identification of N. kolenatii sequences deposited in GenBank, as well as the presence of cryptic species among representatives of this group. The hidden genetic diversity and identified morphological features of species of the genus Nycteribia require further study, including taxonomic revision based on comprehensive morphological and genetic analysis.

Quill mites are obligatory parasites of birds, widely distributed among their hosts. For the first time, we examined birds from two small, phylogenetically closely related piciform families, Megalaimidae (New World Barbets) and Capitonidae (Asian Barbets), for infestation by parasitic mites of the subfamily Picobiinae (Acariformes: Syringophilidae). Birds of the family Megalaimidae were infested by two new species of the genus Picobia: Picobia insolita Skoracki, Sikora & Unsoeld n. sp. collected from Caloramphus hayii in Indonesia, and Picobia paraheeri Skoracki, Sikora & Unsoeld n. sp. found on nine bird species of the genus Psilopogon, including P. zeylanicus in Sri Lanka, P. asiaticus in India, P. virens in China, P. franklini and P. lineatus both in Nepal, and P. corvinus, P. rafflesii, P. chrysopogon, P. pyrolophus, all in Indonesia. Within the Capitonidae family, a single quill mite species, Rafapicobia olszanowskii Skoracki et al. 2020, was found infesting two species of the genus Capito, i.e. C. maculicoronatus in Panama and C. niger in Surinam and Guyana, and these two Asian Barbet species are new hosts for this quill mite species. Our further analysis of picobiine mite records associated with the entire order of Piciformes revealed a correlation between the mites’ distribution patterns and the phylogeny of piciform birds. This significant congruence suggests a close evolutionary relationship between picobiine mites and their avian hosts.http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:F9DEB980-6481-4229-A071-52AC9FF69879http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:6B4F98EB-D166-4DBF-B26F-49F4B22903A8http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:98140DAC-5C53-438B-85A6-1FBA52D178D0

Abstract Background Sarcoptic mange is a skin disease caused by the contagious ectoparasite Sarcoptes scabiei, capable of suppressing and extirpating wild canid populations. Starting in 2015, we observed a multi-year epizootic of sarcoptic mange affecting a red fox (Vulpes vulpes) population on Fire Island, NY, USA. We explored the ecological factors that contributed to the spread of sarcoptic mange and characterized the epizootic in a landscape where red foxes are geographically constrained. Methods We tested for the presence of S. scabiei DNA in skin samples collected from deceased red foxes with lesions visibly consistent with sarcoptic mange disease. We deployed 96–100 remote trail camera stations each year to capture red fox occurrences and used generalized linear mixed-effects models to assess the affects of red fox ecology, human and other wildlife activity, and island geography on the frequency of detecting diseased red foxes. We rated the extent of visual lesions in diseased individuals and mapped the severity and variability of the sarcoptic mange disease. Results Skin samples that we analyzed demonstrated 99.8% similarity to S. scabiei sequences in GenBank. Our top-ranked model (weight = 0.94) showed that diseased red foxes were detected more frequently close to roadways, close to territories of other diseased red foxes, away from human shelters, and in areas with more mammal activity. There was no evidence that detection rates in humans and their dogs or distance to the nearest red fox den explained the detection rates of diseased red foxes. Although detected infrequently, we observed the most severe signs of sarcoptic mange at the periphery of residential villages. The spread of visual signs of the disease was approximately 7.3 ha/week in 2015 and 12.1 ha/week in 2017. Conclusions We quantified two separate outbreaks of sarcoptic mange disease that occurred > 40 km apart and were separated by a year. Sarcoptic mange revealed an unfettered spread across the red fox population. The transmission of S. scabiei mites in this system was likely driven by red fox behaviors and contact between individuals, in line with previous studies. Sarcoptic mange is likely an important contributor to red fox population dynamics within barrier island systems. Graphical Abstract

Pike perch were transferred from an over-wintering net cage into recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). Within a 21-day period, it was examined whether or not ectoparasites, here specifically a representative of the family of Trichodinidae that were naturally present on the fish, could be reduced or even eliminated from the fish by means of sodium chloride treatment (3 and 6 g NaCl/L). Despite a significant reduction in trichodinid density, the application of 3 g NaCl/L proved to be insufficient to eliminate all trichodinids during the 21-day trial. However, under RAS conditions, a continuous 21-day exposure to 6 g NaCl/L completely eliminated the trichodinids on the fish. Based on the observations of the composition of the trichodinid density, it is recommended to screen fish for ectoparasites on multiple body sites. In conclusion, NaCl can be considered an effective and low-cost therapeutic in pike perch aquaculture against trichodiniasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predators negatively affect prey outside of direct attack, and these nonconsumptive effects (NCEs) may cause over half the impacts of predators on prey populations. This "ecology of fear" framework has been extended to host–parasite interactions. The NCEs of parasites are thought to be small relative to those of predators. However, recent research shows ectoparasites exert NCEs on multiple life stages of Drosophila. In this study, we apply recent data to a matrix‐based model of fly populations experiencing infection/consumption and NCEs from an ectoparasitic mite. We found the NCEs of parasites on larvae, which are not actively parasitized, decreased the size of simulated host populations. By contrast, the NCEs on adult flies increased population size through compensatory egg production. The negative NCEs on larvae outweighed the positive effects on adults to reduce population size. This study suggests that parasitic NCEs can suppress host populations independent of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding interactions within and between species is crucial to ecological research. However, for cetaceans such interactions can be difficult to observe in the field. Photographs offer an opportunity to study intra‐ and inter‐specific interactions, by capturing 'snapshots' of their occurrence over space and time. At‐surface and underwater photographs of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) inhabiting Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve (PPMR), Mozambique, were used to examine evidence of interactions with other dolphins, predators and ectoparasites. Intra‐specific scarring levels significantly differed by sex and age class, with males displaying more scarring than females. Similarly, adults had more scarring than juveniles or calves. Shark bites significantly differed in their distribution across dolphin body areas, with the dorsal side being more frequently wounded than the ventral side. The presence of barnacles was exclusive to fluke, dorsal and pectoral fins, and showed strong seasonal trends. Overall, this study demonstrates the value of photographs for examining marine ecological interactions. It provides the first insights regarding dolphin social behaviour, predation risk and health for this population. These in turn will support future research into the population dynamics and conservation of the PPMR dolphins, which is urgently required in the face of locally increasing anthropogenic pressures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Egyptian rousette bats (ERBs) are implicated as reservoir hosts for Marburg virus (MARV), but natural mechanisms involved in maintenance of MARV in ERB populations remain undefined. A number of hematophagous ectoparasites, including fleas, parasitize bats. Subcutaneous (SC) inoculation of ERBs with MARV consistently results in viremia, suggesting that infectious MARV could be ingested by blood-sucking ectoparasites during feeding. In our study, MARV RNA was detected in fleas that took a blood meal during feeding on viremic bats on days 3, 7, and 11 after SC inoculation. Virus concentration in individual ectoparasites was consistent with detectable levels of viremia in the blood of infected host bats. There was neither seroconversion nor viremia in control bats kept in close contact with MARV-infected bats infested with fleas for up to 40 days post-exposure. In fleas inoculated intracoelomically, MARV was detected up to 14 days after intracoelomic (IC) inoculation, but the virus concentration was lower than that delivered in the inoculum. All bats that had been infested with inoculated, viremic fleas remained virologically and serologically negative up to 38 days after infestation. Of 493 fleas collected from a wild ERB colony in Matlapitsi Cave, South Africa, where the enzootic transmission of MARV occurs, all tested negative for MARV RNA. While our findings seem to demonstrate that bat fleas lack vectorial capacity to transmit MARV biologically, their role in mechanical transmission should not be discounted. Regular blood-feeds, intra- and interhost mobility, direct feeding on blood vessels resulting in venous damage, and roosting behaviour of ERBs provide a potential physical bridge for MARV dissemination in densely populated cave-dwelling bats by fleas. The virus transfer might take place through inoculation of skin, mucosal membranes, and wounds when contaminated fleas are squashed during auto- and allogrooming, eating, biting, or fighting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study provides detailed information on six previously described species of syringophilines associated with starlings and records new host and locality data. Additionally, three new species are described: Aulonastus indonesianus sp. n., Aulonastus anais sp. n., and Syringophiloidus poeopterus sp. n., from various starling hosts across Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Tanzania. The study reveals that species from the genera Syringophiloidus and Syringophilopsis exhibit a broad host range among passerine birds, suggesting a long-established symbiotic relationship before the global dispersal of starlings. In Europe, the Eurasian Starling hosts Krantziaulonastus, while in Africa, related niches are occupied by Picobiinae mites. The research highlights the intricate coevolutionary dynamics between quill mites and their avian hosts. Quill mites of the family Syringophilidae are widely distributed parasites of birds inhabiting the interior of feather quills. In this paper, we provide detailed information on the host spectrum and distribution for six previously described species of syringophilines associated with starlings with new host and locality records. Additionally, we describe three new species: Aulonastus indonesianus Marcisova, Skoracki, and Patan sp. n. from the Common Hill Myna Gracula religiosa Linnaeus in Indonesia (Java) and the White-necked Myna Streptocitta albicollis (Vieillot) in Indonesia (Celebes); Aulonastus anais Skoracki and Patan sp. n. from the Golden Myna Mino anais (Lesson) in Papua New Guinea; and Syringophiloidus poeopterus Skoracki and Patan sp. n. from the Abbott's Starling Poeoptera femoralis (Richmond) in Tanzania. Finally, we explore the host–parasite interactions within the system comprising starlings and syringophiline mites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Between 2016 and 2022, the ladybird (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) fauna was surveyed on seven main islands of the Canary Islands archipelago. Adult specimens were collected and screened for thalli of Laboulbeniales (Ascomycota: Laboulbeniomycetes). Altogether, 9,807 ladybird specimens belonging to 39 species were screened, of which 103, representing 10 species, were infected by Laboulbeniales of the genus Hesperomyces. Morphological and molecular examination allowed to distinguish at least seven host-specific Hesperomyces species belonging to three groups: He. virescens species complex (associated with Adalia decempunctata, Harmonia axyridis, Hyperaspis vinciguerrae, Novius cruentatus, Parexochomus nigripennis, and P. quadriplagiatus), He. coccinelloides species complex (Scymnus nubilus, Sc. subvillosus durantae, and Stethorus tenerifensis), and a species (on Nephus flavopictus) that cannot be assigned to either of the above species complexes or the currently described species in the genus. The most widespread and abundant species was Hesperomyces ex St. tenerifensis; it was recorded on all seven islands with prevalence rates ranging between 0.04 and 0.19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natal dispersal is a key demographic trait that affects population dynamics, and intraspecific variation in dispersal affects gene flow among populations and source-sink dynamics. However, relatively little is known about the selective pressures and trade-offs that animals face when departing their natal area due to the logistical difficulties associated with monitoring animals during this critical life stage. We used a randomized block design to examine the selective pressure that influence dispersal timing in juvenile burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia) by experimentally altering both food and ectoparasites at 135 nests. We also examined the effects of local food abundance, ectoparasite loads, and parental departure on natal dispersal timing. Juvenile burrowing owls varied widely in natal dispersal timing, and phenotypic plasticity in dispersal timing was evident in juvenile owls' response to our experimental treatments, local conditions, and their parents' departure from the natal area. Moreover, juveniles responded differently than their parents to experimental manipulation of food and ectoparasite loads. Juveniles typically dispersed shortly after their parents departed the natal area, but delayed dispersing more than 2 weeks after parental departure if they did not receive experimental food supplements during a low-food year. In contrast, the experimental food supplements did not affect the migratory departure decisions of adult owls in either year. Juveniles at nests treated for ectoparasites initiated dispersal at a younger age (and prior to adults in the high-food year) compared to juveniles at control nests. In contrast, parents at nests treated for ectoparasites departed later than parents at control nests. Our results suggest that unfavorable conditions (low food or high ectoparasite loads) caused juveniles to delay dispersal, but prompted adults to depart sooner. Our results highlight the extent of intraspecific variation in natal dispersal timing, and demonstrate that ecological conditions affect dispersal decisions of parents and offspring differently, which can create important trade-offs that likely affect life history strategies and responses to climatic changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplemental feeding can increase the overall health of animals but also can have variable effects on how animals defend themselves against parasites. However, the spatiotemporal effects of food supplementation on host–parasite interactions remain poorly understood, likely because large‐scale, coordinated efforts to investigate them are difficult. Here, we introduce the Nest Parasite Community Science Project, which is a community‐based science project that coordinates studies with bird nest box ‘stewards’ from the public and scientific community. This project was established to understand broad ecological patterns between hosts and their parasites. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of food supplementation on eastern bluebirds (Sialia sialis) and their nest parasite community across the geographic range of the bluebirds from 2018 to 2021. We received 674 nests from 69 stewards in 26 states in the eastern United States. Nest box stewards reported whether or not they provided mealworms or suet near nesting bluebirds, then they followed the nesting success of the birds (number of eggs laid and hatched, proportion that hatched, number and proportion of nestlings that successfully fledged). We then identified and quantified parasites in the nests. Overall, we found that food supplementation increased fledging success. The most common nest parasite taxon was the parasitic blow fly (Protocalliphora sialia), but a few nests contained fleas (Ceratophyllus idius, C. gallinae and Orchopeas leucopus) and mites (Dermanyssus spp. and Ornithonyssus spp.). Blow flies were primarily found at northern latitudes, where food supplementation affected blow fly prevalence. However, the direction of this effect varied substantially in direction and magnitude across years. More stewards fed bluebirds at southern latitudes than at northern latitudes, which contradicts the findings of other community‐based science projects. Overall, food supplementation of birds was associated with increased host fitness but did not appear to play a consistent role in defence against these parasites across all years. Our study demonstrates the importance of coordinated studies across years and locations to understand the effects of environmental heterogeneity, including human‐based food supplementation, on host–parasite dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bats, with their robust immune system, frequently serve as hosts for viruses and bacteria. Bartonella spp. are transmitted by blood-sucking arthropods and are widely distributed among various mammalian species globally. The present study focused on the molecular detection of Bartonella spp. From ectoparasites infesting widely distributed Rhinolophus affinis in Southwest China. Briefly, the bats were captured from four districts, namely Xundian, Jinning, Lufeng, and Mouding and ectoparasites collected from these bats. The ectoparasites were identified based on morphological characteristics, and the biodiversity of ectoparasites infesting bats in the study area was elucidated through spatial distribution and analysis of dominant species. Further, DNA was extracted from ectoparasites and three targeted genes (ftsZ, gltA, and rpoB) of Bartonella were amplified using conventional PCR. Sixty R. affinis bats were captured with an impressive ectoparasites infestation rate of 90.00%. A total of 10 species were identified comprising 1,412 ectoparasites, with the dominant species being Eyndhovenia euryalis (Y = 0.099, m*/m = 2.439), Macronyssys tieni (Y = 0.563, m*/m = 2.040), Macronyssys dechangensis (Y = 0.024, m*/m = 1.815), Ixodes vespertilionis (Y = 0.026, m*/m = 2.146), and Stylidia fraterna (Y = 0.052, m*/m = 1.436) (one species of bat fly), all of which exhibited aggregated distribution on the host's body surface. Notably, the detection of 172 ectoparasites in the bats revealed that all positive cases of Bartonella were found in S. fraterna. This high prevalence may be attributed to the unique reproductive strategy of bat flies, which facilitates vertical transmission of Bartonella. Therefore, bat flies may act as potential vectors for Bartonella transmission. This study deepens understanding of the ectoparasite diversity of R. affinis and broadens our knowledge of the geographical distribution of this pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several factors influence whether an organism remains in its local habitat. Parasites can, for example, influence host movement by impacting their behavior, physiology, and morphology. In rivers, fish that swim efficiently against the current are able to maintain their position without being displaced downstream, a behavior referred to as positive rheotaxis. We hypothesized that both the presence and number of ectoparasites on a host would affect the ability of fish to avoid downstream displacement and thus prevent them from remaining in their habitat. We used the guppy‐Gyrodactylus host‐ectoparasite model to test whether parasite presence and parasite load had an effect on fish rheotaxis. We quantified rheotaxis of sham‐infected and parasite‐infected fish in a circular flow tank in the laboratory prior to infection and 5–6 days postinfection. Both parasite‐infected and sham‐infected individuals expressed similar levels of positive rheotaxis prior to infection and after infection. However, with increasing parasite numbers, guppies covered less distance in the upstream direction and spent more time in slower flow zones. These results suggest that higher numbers of Gyrodactylus ectoparasites negatively influence rheotactic movements. Further research is needed to understand the ecological and evolutionary implications of this ectoparasite on fish movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • This study documents four quill mite species in Birds-of-Paradise, indicating complex host-parasite dynamics. • The presence of mite genera typically associated with non-passerines on Birds-of-Paradise indicates host-switching events. • While some mites prefer closely related host genera, others infest phylogenetically distant hosts. • This study notes predominantly low prevalence and highlights specific habitat preferences of different mite species. • A network analysis reveals new insights into the ecological dynamics of the host-parasite relationships. Mites of the family Syringophilidae (Acariformes: Prostigmata: Cheyletoidea) are permanent and obligatory parasites of birds. This study presents an analysis of mite material collected from 22 avian species belonging to the family Paradisaeidae (Passeriformes), revealing the presence of four mite species belonging to four genera: Syringophiloidus attenboroughi n. sp., Peristerophila regiusi n. comb., Picobia frankei , and Gunabopicobia garylarsoni. In the present work, the genus Neoperisterophila is synonymized with the genus Peristerophila. While the genera Syringophiloidus and Picobia were expectedly found on paradisaeid birds, given their prevalence in passerines, the presence of Peristerophila and Gunabopicobia was intriguing, suggesting potential host-switching events. The specificity of these mites varies, with some showing occurrence on hosts of closely related genera and others infesting phylogenetically distant hosts. Notably, the distribution of specific mite species on the Birds-of-Paradise appears to be influenced by both long coevolutionary histories and incidental contacts between often unrelated or intergeneric hybrid species of paradisaeid birds. Furthermore, our research of 104 specimens from 22 Birds-of-Paradise species shows generally low infestation rates across the studied species, suggesting a nuanced interaction between these mites and their avian hosts. Additionally, our network analysis provides a deeper understanding of these host-parasite interactions, revealing a high level of specialization and complexity in these ecological relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to identify the type of ectoparasite in the adult tilapia. For this study, 20 specimens of the tilapia fish, with an average weight of 247.68± 69.47g, were collected. The fish samples were placed in the rearing unit at the Higher Institute of Maritime Fisheries, Agadir, Morocco. The study was conducted from October 2023 to April 2024. 16 samples were examined in the physiology and oceanography laboratory. The samples were eviscerated to detect the parasite. The fish had ectoparasites in the gills, eyes, and on scales. The parasite was identified as Dactylogyrus sp. and was found only on the tilapia’s scales and in its gills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nycteribiidae encompasses a specialized group of wingless blood-sucking flies that parasitize bats worldwide. Such relationships are frequently species- or genus-specific, indicating unique eco-evolutionary processes. However, despite this significance, comprehensive studies on the relationships of these flies with their hosts, particularly in the New World, have been scarce. Here, we provide a detailed description of the parasitological patterns of nycteribiid flies infesting a population of Myotis lavali bats in the Atlantic Forest of northeastern Brazil, considering the potential influence of biotic and abiotic factors on the establishment of nycteribiids on bat hosts. From July 2014 to June 2015, we captured 165 M. lavali bats and collected 390 Basilia travassosi flies. Notably, B. travassosi displayed a high prevalence and was the exclusive fly species parasitizing M. lavali in the surveyed area. Moreover, there was a significant predominance of female flies, indicating a female-biased pattern. The distribution pattern of the flies was aggregated; most hosts exhibited minimal or no parasitism, while a minority displayed heavy infestation. Sexually active male bats exhibited greater susceptibility to parasitism compared to their inactive counterparts, possibly due to behavioral changes during the peak reproductive period. We observed a greater prevalence and abundance of flies during the rainy season, coinciding with the peak reproductive phase of the host species. No obvious correlation was observed between the parasite load and bat body mass. Our findings shed light on the intricate dynamics of nycteribiid-bat interactions and emphasize the importance of considering various factors when exploring bat-parasite associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leptus (Leptus) molochinus (C. L. Koch, 1837) (Trombidiformes: Erythraeidae) was collected as an ectoparasite on Ophion sp. (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), Paederus fuscipes Curtis, 1826 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae), Cicadella viridis (L. 1758) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), Peritrechus sp. (Hemiptera: Lygaeidae); the ectoparasitic mite, Solistrus mitrae Saboori, Ueckermann & van Harten, 2008 was also found on an undetermined ant species (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from Guilan province, Iran. Additional morphometric data for L. (L.) molochinus larvae are provided. Solistrus mitrae is reported for the second time in the world. Ophion sp. (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), P. fuscipes (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae), C. viridis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) and Peritrechus sp. (Hemiptera: Lygaeidae) are recorded as new host taxa for L. (L.) molochinus and unknown ant species is new host for S. mitrae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cats, as widely embraced companions in diverse environments, face significant health threats due to infection by ectoparasites. The present study investigates the prevalence of ectoparasite infestations in domestic cats (Felis catus) in Giza Governorate, Egypt. Spanning from December 2022 to November 2023, the study included 400 samples of diverse feline populations. Fleas and ear mites were detected in 20.75% and 11.25% of the examined cats, respectively. While ticks and myiasis were observed in 0.5% for each. Clinical manifestations and morphological structures of the detected parasites were documented. Moreover, the research integrates molecular characterization, utilizing the COI gene for Sarcophaga species identification. The study also analyzed risk factors, adjusting for age, sex, and season, revealing variations in infestation rates. Cats under one year old exhibited the highest infestation rate (48.35%). Seasonal variation showed the highest prevalence in autumn, followed by summer and winter, with a decline in spring. This survey study provides valuable insights into ectoparasite infestations in domestic cats to serve as a pivotal step toward promoting cat welfare and safeguarding public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new chigger species, belonging to genera Leeuwenhoekia Oudemans, 1911 (Leeuwenhoekiidae), Colicus Brennan 1970, and Herpetacarus (Vercammen-Grandjean 1960) (Trombiculidae), are described, based on specimens deposited in the Acarological collection at Centro de Coleções Taxonômicas da UFMG, including voucher material for which sequences from multiple genes are available, sampled from Minas Gerais and Amazonas states, Brazil. Leeuwenhoekia berthalutzaesp. nov. was found in association with the rodent Calomys sp. and Oligoryzomys sp., Colicus helenagrecaesp. nov. with the rodent Cerradomys cf. subflavus, Colicus carolinaesp. nov. in cave soil, off-host, and Herpetacarus mariellaesp. nov. in leaf litter, off-host. Additionally, we report a new record for Quadraseta brasiliensisGoff & Gettinger, 1989 associated with rodents from Parque Nacional Serra do Itajaí, Santa Catarina state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Battery poultry houses are subject to infestations by pests, such as the ectoparasitic mites Dermanyssus gallinae (De Geer, 1778) and Ornithonyssus bursa (Berlese, 1888) which are hematophagous and can cause skin lesions, stress, and even death of hens, leading to significant economic losses. Recent European studies have shown that these mites can also work as vectors of pathogenic microorganisms. Therefore, due to the absence of records on the association between D. gallinae and O. bursa and pathogenic microorganisms in Brazil, the present study aimed to identify pathogenic bacteria through a metagenomics analysis associated with mites collected from a poultry house located in a rural area of the state of Rio Grande do Sul and direct from a skin' person that lives in a farm in the interior of the state of São Paulo (Brazil). For the material collected in Rio Grande do Sul, a higher predominance of endosymbiotic bacteria, and different species of the pathogenic bacteria species Bartonella was observed. On the other hand, some enterobacteria were identified from O. bursa samples, but the amount was not high enough to identify the species. Additionally, the endosymbiotic Wolbachia spp. was identified in both O. bursa samples (pooled and individuals). Besides the detection of Wolbachia, in the individual O. bursa microbiome, we detected Spiroplasma spp. and 'Candidatus Cardinium'. This is the first time that a microbiome study has been made for the species D. gallinae and O. bursa in Brazil, as well as the first time that Wolbachia, Spiroplasma and 'Candidatus Cardinium' was detected in O. bursa samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodiversity of vertebrate farm animals like cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat and fowls are playing an important role in the economy of farming industry as well as the economy of the state and in turn the economy of country. Therefore to take care of health and hygiene of all farm animals and related stakeholders in this industry becomes important. By considering this, the present survey work was undertaken at small area level for the Helminths (Gut Parasites) like Nematode, Cestode, Trematodes, Protozoans and Ectoparasites (Arthropods) like lice, ticks and mites. The data obtained from this study is important to literate the farm owners, farmers and other stakeholders about health, hygiene and the impact of this on animals as well as on themselves. The data obtained can also help the stakeholders' to take precautionary step to prevent the animals from getting infected with parasites as well as to provide medical help to animals with the help of farmers. For the present study 12 no of villages were selected from Bhadgaon and Pachora Tahasil from North Maharashtra. From these villages farm animals like buffaloes, cattles, goats, sheeps and fowls were studied for their different types of infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Summa, Animali da Compagnia is the property of Point Veterinaire Italie s.r.l. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Honey bees play an important role in the survival and pollination of many plants. One of the most important of pests that attack honey bees is Varroa destructor mite. This mite is an ectoparasite of honeybees and feeds mainly on larvae and pupae. In this research, Apis mellifera meda workers were infected at the pupal stage to different mite densities and then the biological and morphological characteristics of the emerged adult bees were investigated. For this purpose, female mites were collected from infected hives and placed in each prepupal cell according to the desired mite density (0, 1, 2 or 3 mites). After adult bees emerged, nutritional traits were checked every 3 days for 12 days. Then these adult bees were dissected to measure the area of the hypopharyngeal acinus. The biological and morphological results showed that the increase mite density had no effect on the duration of the pupation period of bees, but it significantly decreased the weight, body length, area of the forewings, hind wings and hind tibia of bees. Adult bees that had three mites during their pupation had the highest mortality rate and for this reason, it was not possible to examine their nutritional characteristics. The nutritional characteristics results showed that increasing the mite density caused a decrease in the consumption of syrup and water by the adult bees, but the consumption of pollen did not change. The food consumption index of bees without mite and bees with two mites during the pupation period was higher than bees with one mite, but the growth rate and the area of the acini of the treatments did not show any difference. The results of this study are expected to provide a basis for biological control of this mite by providing further information on how it affects honeybees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Biotropica is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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

Background: Sarcoptic mange is a skin disease caused by the contagious ectoparasite Sarcoptes scabiei, capable of suppressing and extirpating wild canid populations. Starting in 2015, we observed a multi-year epizootic of sarcoptic mange affecting a red fox (Vulpes vulpes) population on Fire Island, NY, USA. We explored the ecological factors that contributed to the spread of sarcoptic mange and characterized the epizootic in a landscape where red foxes are geographically constrained. Methods: We tested for the presence of S. scabiei DNA in skin samples collected from deceased red foxes with lesions visibly consistent with sarcoptic mange disease. We deployed 96–100 remote trail camera stations each year to capture red fox occurrences and used generalized linear mixed-effects models to assess the affects of red fox ecology, human and other wildlife activity, and island geography on the frequency of detecting diseased red foxes. We rated the extent of visual lesions in diseased individuals and mapped the severity and variability of the sarcoptic mange disease. Results: Skin samples that we analyzed demonstrated 99.8% similarity to S. scabiei sequences in GenBank. Our top-ranked model (weight = 0.94) showed that diseased red foxes were detected more frequently close to roadways, close to territories of other diseased red foxes, away from human shelters, and in areas with more mammal activity. There was no evidence that detection rates in humans and their dogs or distance to the nearest red fox den explained the detection rates of diseased red foxes. Although detected infrequently, we observed the most severe signs of sarcoptic mange at the periphery of residential villages. The spread of visual signs of the disease was approximately 7.3 ha/week in 2015 and 12.1 ha/week in 2017. Conclusions: We quantified two separate outbreaks of sarcoptic mange disease that occurred > 40 km apart and were separated by a year. Sarcoptic mange revealed an unfettered spread across the red fox population. The transmission of S. scabiei mites in this system was likely driven by red fox behaviors and contact between individuals, in line with previous studies. Sarcoptic mange is likely an important contributor to red fox population dynamics within barrier island systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]