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Parasitic nematodes of the oxyurid family Pharyngodonidae are commonly found across reptile orders, with species of the genus Spauligodon Skrjabin, Schikhobalova & Lagodovskaja, 1960, being among the most common ones. However, scant information exists regarding the prevalence of Spauligodon nematodes in Italian reptile populations. Although two Spauligodon species have been reported from southern Italy, the presence of these worms in the rest of the country remains unknown. In this research, we describe Spauligodon orobicus sp. nov. from an Italian common wall lizard Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768) of northern Italy. The new species is distinct from other known species both at the morphological and molecular level. The study increases the knowledge on the biodiversity of Spauligodon nematodes and in general on the biodiversity of Italy, and adds northern Italy to the geographical range of this nematode genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Pilostyles are a genus of endoparasitic plants specific to the Fabaceae family. In Australia, three species are restricted to the South-west floristic region. Aims: This study aimed to assess the use of resource-selection functions (RSFs) on populations of Pilostyles hamiltoniorum to understand host preference to the known host species of Daviesia. Methods: Forty sites were chosen along the known distribution of P. hamiltoniorum , and infected and uninfected hosts were recorded at each site. The Manly resource-usage function was applied to the data to assess host use in populations of P. hamiltoniorum. Key results: Only 9 of the 40 sites had populations large enough to assess host use. Out of these surveys, Pilostyles presented high preference for four hosts species, namely, Daviesia angulata, D. physodes, D. preisii and D. rhombifolia , with D. decurrens , observed to be the least favoured host. Conclusion: Resource-selection indices showed to be a potential tool in understanding host preference within the genus Pilostyles , with evidence here indicating that host use is not equal within the environment. Implications: The patterns of host use show that there are some unknown factors between each host affecting infection, along with the identification of strongly preferred hosts that could lead to future research in ex vitro cultivation. Understanding host usage is a significant aspect of understanding the ecology of parasitic plants. For endoparasitic plants host use is strict, although for Pilostyles , there are several species within the strict set of hosts that are used. Because of this, resource-usage functionsprovide a means to assess host usage in the genus Pilostyles. This study presents the first use of these functions in assessing Pilostyles hamiltoniorum to help understand host utilisation throughout its distribution. Photograph by Ryan Craig (2021). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Evidence shows that full mycoheterotrophs and holoparasites often have reduced plastid genomes with rampant gene loss, elevated substitution rates, and deeply altered to conventional evolution in mitochondrial genomes, but mechanisms of cytonuclear evolution is unknown. Endoparasitic Sapria himalayana and mycoheterotrophic Gastrodia and Platanthera guangdongensis represent different heterotrophic types, providing a basis to illustrate cytonuclear evolution. Here, we focused on nuclear-encoded plastid / mitochondrial (N-pt / mt) -targeting protein complexes, including caseinolytic protease (ClpP), ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCo), oxidative phosphorylation system (OXPHOS), DNA recombination, replication, and repair (DNA-RRR) system, and pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins, to identify evolutionary drivers for cytonuclear interaction. Results The severity of gene loss of N-pt PPR and pt-RRR genes was positively associated with increased degree of heterotrophy in full mycoheterotrophs and S. himalayana, while N-mt PPR and mt-RRR genes were retained. Substitution rates of organellar and nuclear genes encoding N-pt/mt subunits in protein complexes were evaluated, cytonuclear coevolution was identified in S. himalayana, whereas disproportionate rates of evolution were observed in the OXPHOS complex in full mycoheterotrophs, only slight accelerations in substitution rates were identified in N-mt genes of full mycoheterotrophs. Conclusions Nuclear compensatory evolution was identified in protein complexes encoded by plastid and N-pt genes. Selection shaping codon preferences, functional constraint, mt-RRR gene regulation, and post-transcriptional regulation of PPR genes all facilitate mito-nuclear evolution. Our study enriches our understanding of genomic coevolution scenarios in fully heterotrophic plants.

Rhinonyssids are obligate hematophagous mites that parasitize the nasal cavity of domestic and wilds birds worldwide. For the first time, two species of nasal mites of the genus Rhinonyssus from Estonia are described. One species of nasal mite, Rhinonyssus pluvialis Fain et Johnston, 1966, is described and illustrated based on material from Pluvialis apricaria Linnaeus, 1758 (Charadriiformes, Charadriidae). Another species of nasal mite, Rhinonyssus tringae Fain, 1963, is described and illustrated based on material from Tringa glareola Linnaeus, 1758 (Charadriiformes, Scolopacidae). The bird hosts were collected in Estonia, Puhato järv.

Background: Evidence shows that full mycoheterotrophs and holoparasites often have reduced plastid genomes with rampant gene loss, elevated substitution rates, and deeply altered to conventional evolution in mitochondrial genomes, but mechanisms of cytonuclear evolution is unknown. Endoparasitic Sapria himalayana and mycoheterotrophic Gastrodia and Platanthera guangdongensis represent different heterotrophic types, providing a basis to illustrate cytonuclear evolution. Here, we focused on nuclear-encoded plastid / mitochondrial (N-pt / mt) -targeting protein complexes, including caseinolytic protease (ClpP), ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCo), oxidative phosphorylation system (OXPHOS), DNA recombination, replication, and repair (DNA-RRR) system, and pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins, to identify evolutionary drivers for cytonuclear interaction. Results: The severity of gene loss of N-pt PPR and pt-RRR genes was positively associated with increased degree of heterotrophy in full mycoheterotrophs and S. himalayana, while N-mt PPR and mt-RRR genes were retained. Substitution rates of organellar and nuclear genes encoding N-pt/mt subunits in protein complexes were evaluated, cytonuclear coevolution was identified in S. himalayana, whereas disproportionate rates of evolution were observed in the OXPHOS complex in full mycoheterotrophs, only slight accelerations in substitution rates were identified in N-mt genes of full mycoheterotrophs. Conclusions: Nuclear compensatory evolution was identified in protein complexes encoded by plastid and N-pt genes. Selection shaping codon preferences, functional constraint, mt-RRR gene regulation, and post-transcriptional regulation of PPR genes all facilitate mito-nuclear evolution. Our study enriches our understanding of genomic coevolution scenarios in fully heterotrophic plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wild adult Eurasian eagle owl was presented to a wildlife rehabilitation center and diagnosed with knemidokoptic mange, lice, and blood parasites. Clinical presentation included emaciation and dehydration coupled with skin edema, crusts, and feather loss on the legs. Knemidokoptiasis is rarely reported in wild owls, with only one instance documented in a closely related species, the great horned owl (Bubo virginianus). Although mange is sporadically encountered in wildlife facility patients, a thorough examination looking for a possible underlying immunosuppressive state or the presence of an additional parasitemia is not always conducted. This case was treated with oral ivermectin combined with a topical steroid and antibacterial-antifungal cream in an essential oil and green clay medium for the mite infestation and doxycycline for the treatment of blood parasites. Full recovery was noted 22 days post-admission, notably a shorter time in care than similar case studies described in the literature. This case demonstrates the importance of updating treatment protocols and arriving at a full clinical diagnosis in wild animal patients, as well as the need for performing a detailed parasitic examination to address any underlying issues and raising questions regarding the etiology of the condition. To the author's knowledge, this case study is the only reported instance of medically treating a wild owl of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of endoparasites associated with chaetognath abundance in the coastal waters of the Mexican Central Pacific was studied fortnightly from November 2010 to December 2011. A total of 35 (0.21%) out of 16,407 chaetognaths were found to be parasitized. Five out of twelve chaetognath species (Flaccisagitta enflata, F. hexaptera, Parasagitta euneritica, Serratosagitta pacifica, Zonosagitta bedoti) were found to be parasitized by nine endoparasitic taxa: Protists (two morphotypes), digenean metacercariae [Didymozoidae, Hemiuridae, Parahemiurus sp., Lepocreadiidae, Prosorhynchus sp. (Bucephalidae)], and cestodes (metacestodes) [Tetraphyllidea (two morphotypes)]. Parasagitta. euneritica and Z. bedoti were the most abundant chaetognath species, and Protist sp. 2 and Tetraphyllidea sp. 1 were the most abundant parasites. The highest prevalence for most of the endoparasite species occurred in June, and the values varied according to three hydroclimatic periods: stratified (S), semi-mixed (SM), and mixed (M). Eight non-infected chaetognath species, two parasitized chaetognaths (F. enflata and S. pacifica), and two parasites (Protist sp. 1 and Tetraphyllidea sp. 2) were associated with warm temperatures (S and SM periods); in contrast, P. euneritica, Z. bedoti, parasitized F. hexaptera, and the parasite Tetraphyllidea sp. 1 showed a strong local preference for cooler temperatures, high productivity, and high biomass conditions (M periods). We discovered the occurrence of the digenean Prosorhynchus sp. (Bucephalidae) parasitizing the chaetognath P. euneritica, and this is the first report of Prosorhynchus parasitizing chaetognaths worldwide. We also confirmed the presence of Lepocrediidae (metacercariae larval stage) infecting F. hexaptera, a parasite that had only been recorded infecting other chaetognaths of the Atlantic Ocean. The parasite diversity affecting the chaetognath populations of the Central Mexican Pacific coast likely differs between the offshore, outer slope areas, and the surveyed coastal system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infections of endoparasites in primates in natural habitats are highly prevalent and can cause disease, reduce health quality, and disrupt their life. This study investigated endoparasites prevalence value in the endangered Javan gibbon (Hylobates moloch) in Citalahab Forest, Gunung Halimun Salak National Park, Indonesia, from June to August 2022 by collected fecal samples (N = 10) and analyzed it using floatation methods. As a result, we found five genera of nematodes Trichuris trichiura (10% egg worm prevalence, Oesophagostomum spp. (50%), Trichostrongylus spp. (60%), Ancylostoma spp. (80%), and Strongyloides spp. (100%). The prevalence value of the worms in the larvae stage of Trichostrongylus spp. 20% and Strongyloides spp. 70%. Nematode infection status successively is Strongyloides spp., which is, frequently; Trichostrongylus spp. and Ancylostoma spp., which is, often; Oesophagostomum spp. and Trichuris trichiura which is, occasionally. Four species of nematode were found in both ages, and only Trichuris trichiura was found in one adolescent individual. The threat posed by this parasite deserves attention; further research is needed to fill the gap in our knowledge of their pathogenicity and transmission in Javan gibbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhinonyssids are obligate hematophagous mites that parasitize the nasal cavity of domestic and wilds birds worldwide. For the first time, two species of nasal mites of the genus Rhinonyssus from Estonia are described. One species of nasal mite, Rhinonyssus pluvialis Fain et Johnston, 1966, is described and illustrated based on material from Pluvialis apricaria Linnaeus, 1758 (Charadriiformes, Charadriidae). Another species of nasal mite, Rhinonyssus tringae Fain, 1963, is described and illustrated based on material from Tringa glareola Linnaeus, 1758 (Charadriiformes, Scolopacidae). The bird hosts were collected in Estonia, Puhato järv. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past decade, molecular phylogenies have placed endoparasites of the genus Euduboscquella in a distinct subclade within clade 4 of the Marine Alveolate (MALV) Group I. Recently, however, rRNA gene sequences have become available for four novel Euduboscquella-like species that infect dinoflagellates, with phylogenies including these sequences indicating that the genus Euduboscquella is paraphyletic. Here, we provide a morphological characterization of the intracellular and extracellular life-cycle stages of a novel species that infects Cucumeridinium coeruleum, a warm water pelagic species sometimes found in coastal environments. We formally describe the novel parasite, Hobagella saltata n. gen, n. sp., and identify a constellation of morphological and developmental characters that distinguish it, as well as Euduboscquella melo and E. nucleocola, both parasites of dinoflagellates, from Euduboscquella species that infect ciliates. We recommend the reassignment of E. melo and E. nucleocola as Hobagella melo n. comb. and H. nucleocola n. comb., respectively. We also propose the family Hobagellidae for these three congeners. We anticipate that the character set developed for distinguishing species of Euduboscquella and Hobagella will be valuable for sorting other Euduboscquella-Hobagella-like taxa scattered across the Group I phylogeny and will provide insight into morphological evolutionary patterns within Group I. Lastly, we consider the potential influence of summer-fall typhoons on the occurrence of H. saltata and its host C. coeruleum in near-shore waters along the southeastern coast of Korea and propose a hypothesis regarding the northward transport and onshore advection of host and parasite populations. If future research supports the hypothesized mechanisms, it could help us better understand parasite distribution and potential changes in biogeography associated with ongoing global changes in surface seawater temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endoparasitic fungus Hirsutella rhossiliensis is an important biocontrol agent of cyst nematodes in nature. To determine the potential parasitism of the fungus on a non-natural host, the pinewood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus) living in pine trees and the endophytic ability of the fungus on plants, in this paper, we first constructed and utilized a green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged H. rhossiliensis HR02 transformant to observe the fungal infection process on B. xylophilus and its colonization on Arabidopsis roots. Then, we compared the fungal parasitism on three species of nematodes with different lifestyles, and we found that the fungal parasitism is correlated with nematode species and stages. The parasitic effect of H. rhossiliensis on adults of B. xylophilus is similar to that on second-stage juveniles (J2) of the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita after 24 h of inoculation, although the virulence of the fungus to second-stage juveniles of M. incognita is stronger than that to those of B. xylophilus and Caenorhabditis elegans. Moreover, the endophytism of H. rhossiliensis was confirmed. By applying an appropriate concentration of H. rhossiliensis conidial suspension (5 × 106 spores/mL) in rhizosphere soil, it was found that the endophytic fungus can promote A. thaliana growth and reproduction, as well as improve host resistance against M. incognita. Our results provide a deeper understanding of the fungus H. rhossiliensis as a promising biocontrol agent against plant-parasitic nematodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proliferative kidney disease caused by the myxozoan parasite Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae has been actively studied in juvenile salmonids for decades. However, very little is known about parasite prevalence and its geographical and intra‐host distribution at older life stages. We screened T. bryosalmonae among adult sea trout (Salmo trutta) (n = 295) collected along the Estonian Baltic Sea coastline together with juvenile trout from 33 coastal rivers (n = 1752) to assess spatial infection patterns of the adult and juvenile fish. The parasite was detected among 38.6% of adult sea trout with the prevalence increasing from west to east, and south to north, along the coastline. A similar pattern was observed in juvenile trout. Infected sea trout were also older than uninfected fish and the parasite was detected in sea trout up to the age of 6 years. Analysis of intra‐host distribution of the parasite and strontium to calcium ratios from the otoliths revealed that (re)infection through freshwater migration may occur among adult sea trout. The results of this study indicate that T. bryosalmonae can persist in a brackish water environment for several years and that returning sea trout spawners most likely contribute to the parasite life cycle by transmitting infective spores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waddycephalus is an understudied genus of pentastomids native to Australia and south-east Asia. The genus was recognized in 1922 but there has been little research on these pentastomid tongue worms over the last century. A few observations suggest a complex life cycle through 3 trophic levels. We aimed to add knowledge to the Waddycephalus life cycle in woodland habitats in the Townsville region of north-east Australia. We used camera trapping to identify the most likely first-intermediate hosts (coprophagous insects), we conducted gecko surveys to identify multiple new gecko intermediate host species and we dissected road-killed snakes to identify additional definitive hosts. Our study paves the way for further research into the intriguing life cycle of Waddycephalus, investigation of spatial variation in prevalence and impacts of the parasite on host species.

Rodents living in a subterranean ecotope face a unique combination of evolutionary and ecological pressures and while host species evolution may be driven by the selective pressure from the parasites they harbour, the parasites may be responding to the selective pressures of the host. Here, we obtained all available subterranean rodent host–parasite records from the literature and integrated these data by utilizing a bipartite network analysis to determine multiple critical parameters to quantify and measure the structure and interactions of the organisms present in host–parasite communities. A total of 163 species of subterranean rodent hosts, 174 parasite species and 282 interactions were used to create 4 networks with data well-represented from all habitable continents. The results show that there was no single species of parasite that infects subterranean rodents throughout all zoogeographical regions. Nevertheless, species representing the genera Eimeria and Trichuris were common across all communities of subterranean rodents studied. Based on our analysis of host–parasite interactions across all communities studied, the parasite linkages show that community connectance (due to climate change or other anthropogenic factors) appears to show degraded linkages in both the Nearctic and Ethiopian regions: in this case parasites are acting as bell-weather probes signalling the loss of biodiversity.

Abstract The tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) is a species of great economic importance for fish farming in the Brazilian Amazon, and acanthocephaliasis caused by Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae (Golvan 1956) represents an obstacle to its production due to it causing severe morphological damage to the intestinal mucosa, thus impairing the absorption of nutrients and causing weight loss in the fish. Therefore, the establishment of in vitro protocols for evaluation of anthelmintic drugs is the first step to development of effective measures for in vivo control of this endoparasite. The present study evaluated the in vitro survival of N. buttnerae maintained in Eagle’s minimum essential medium under different culture conditions. Three assays were carried out to evaluate whether temperature, supplementation with the antibiotics penicillin and streptomycin, and culture medium replacement or no replacement would influence the motility and morphology of the acanthocephalans. The results of the Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that the use of culture in minimum essential medium together with penicillin and streptomycin prolonged the parasite’s survival when kept at temperatures of 24 °C or 28 °C. We describe herein for first time an alternative protocol that is ideal for the in vitro culture of N. buttnerae. As such, this protocol ensures greater reliability in further in vitro studies with N. buttnerae.

Parasites can affect host behavior, cognition, locomotion, body condition, and many other physiological traits. Changes to host aerobic metabolism may be responsible for these parasite-induced performance alterations. Whole-organism metabolic rate is underpinned by cellular energy metabolism driven most prominently by mitochondria. However, few studies have explored how mitochondrial enzymatic activity relates to body condition and parasite infection, despite it being a putative site for metabolic disruptions related to health status. We studied correlations among natural parasite infection, host body condition, and activity of key mitochondrial enzymes in target organs from wild-caught pumpkinseed sunfish (Lepomis gibbosus) to better understand the cellular responses of fish hosts to endoparasite infection. Enzymatic activities in the gills, spleen, and brain of infected fish were not significantly related to parasite infection or host body condition. However, the activity of cytochrome c oxidase, an enzyme involved in oxidative phosphorylation, in fish hearts was higher in individuals with a lower body condition. Activities of citrate synthase, electron transport system (complexes I and III), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase were also significantly different among organ types. These results provide preliminary information regarding the likely mitochondrial pathways affecting host body condition, the maintenance energetic requirements of different organs, and the organs' specific dependency on particular mitochondrial pathways. These results help pave the way for future studies on the effects of parasite infection on mitochondrial metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MHC gene is highly polymorphic and plays central molecule in immune system in recognition of pathogens and parasites. The present study examined the variability of MHC class II DRB exon 2 gene using microsatellite analysis, and its association with Haemonchus contortus infestation in Salem Black goat population. Animals were naturally exposed to mixed infestation of endoparasites, predominantly Haemonchus contortus. Pooled fecal coproculture and larval identification showed predominant presence of haemonchus (L3) larva. Fecal egg count (FEC) and packed cell volume (PCV) were used as indicator traits. All the three studied loci, OarCP73, DYA, and ODRB1.2, were polymorphic having three, four, and four alleles and four, eight, and nine genotypes, respectively. The loci showed low to moderate values of polymorphic information content. The mean fecal egg count estimates were 477.12 ± 34.14 eggs per gram of feces and the mean PCV values were within the normal range; however, they showed negative correlation with FEC values. All the three microsatellite loci and the effect of genotypes on indicator traits were found to be statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05). The present study will be helpful in selection and breeding of goats for Haemonchosis resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waddycephalus is an understudied genus of pentastomids native to Australia and south-east Asia. The genus was recognized in 1922 but there has been little research on these pentastomid tongue worms over the last century. A few observations suggest a complex life cycle through 3 trophic levels. We aimed to add knowledge to the Waddycephalus life cycle in woodland habitats in the Townsville region of north-east Australia. We used camera trapping to identify the most likely first-intermediate hosts (coprophagous insects), we conducted gecko surveys to identify multiple new gecko intermediate host species and we dissected road-killed snakes to identify additional definitive hosts. Our study paves the way for further research into the intriguing life cycle of Waddycephalus , investigation of spatial variation in prevalence and impacts of the parasite on host species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AUTH Rodents living in a subterranean ecotope face a unique combination of evolutionary and ecological pressures and while host species evolution may be driven by the selective pressure from the parasites they harbour, the parasites may be responding to the selective pressures of the host. Here, we obtained all available subterranean rodent host–parasite records from the literature and integrated these data by utilizing a bipartite network analysis to determine multiple critical parameters to quantify and measure the structure and interactions of the organisms present in host–parasite communities. A total of 163 species of subterranean rodent hosts, 174 parasite species and 282 interactions were used to create 4 networks with data well-represented from all habitable continents. The results show that there was no single species of parasite that infects subterranean rodents throughout all zoogeographical regions. Nevertheless, species representing the genera Eimeria and Trichuris were common across all communities of subterranean rodents studied. Based on our analysis of host–parasite interactions across all communities studied, the parasite linkages show that community connectance (due to climate change or other anthropogenic factors) appears to show degraded linkages in both the Nearctic and Ethiopian regions: in this case parasites are acting as bell-weather probes signalling the loss of biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halophila stipulacea is an invasive seagrass in the Caribbean Sea that also harbors a phytomyxid endoparasite. Phytomyxean parasites are known to cause disease in agricultural crops and are documented to form galls in some seagrass species. Here we make the first report of phytomyxid infection of Halophila stipulacea in the Bahía de Jobos in Salinas, Puerto Rico. We found phytomyxid infected H. stipulacea at 3 of 5 sites examined, expanding the documented range of the Marinomyxa marina phytomyxid infection by almost 400 km from where it was first documented in 2018. Presence of the endoparasite has not impeded H. stipulacea dispersal and continued expansion of H. stipulacea will likely spread both the host seagrass and the endoparasite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasites are important, diverse, and abundant components of natural ecosystems and can influence the behaviour and health of their hosts, inter‐ and intraspecific interactions, and ultimately community structure. Coral reefs are one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems, yet our understanding of the abundance, diversity, and composition of parasite communities of coral reef fishes is limited. Here, the authors aimed to compare the abundance, richness and composition of parasite communities among three co‐occurring herbivorous coral reef fishes (the barred rabbitfish Siganus doliatus, Ward's damsel Pomacentrus wardi and the obscure damsel Pomacentrus adelus) from an inshore reef of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR). In total, 3978 parasites (3869 endoparasites and 109 ectoparasites) from 17 families were recovered from 30 individuals of each of the three fish species (mean = 44 ± 22 s.e. parasites per fish; range = 0–1947 parasites per fish). The parasite communities of P. wardi and P. adelus were characterised by pennellid copepods, derogenid and lecithasterid digeneans and were distinct from those of S. doliatus that were characterised by a higher abundance of atractotrematid and gyliauchenid digeneans. The abundance and family richness of all parasites were greatest in S. doliatus (abundance: 22.1 ± 5.0 parasites per fish; richness: 3.2 ± 0.3 families per fish), intermediate in P. wardi (abundance: 4.8 ± 1.1 parasites per fish; richness: 2.3 ± 0.3 families per fish) and lowest in P. adelus (abundance: 1.4 ± 0.4 parasites per fish; richness: 0.9 ± 0.2 families per fish). Similarly, the abundance of endoparasites was greatest in S. doliatus (19.7 ± 5.1 endoparasites per fish), intermediate in P. wardi (2.6 ± 0.7 endoparasites per fish) and lowest in P. adelus (1.2 ± 0.4 endoparasites per fish). Ectoparasite abundances were also lowest for P. adelus (0.2 ± 0.1 ectoparasites per fish), and S. doliatus and P. wardi had comparable abundances of ectoparasites (1.3 ± 0.3 and 2.1 ± 0.5 parasites per fish, respectively). Similarities between the parasite assemblages of the two pomacentrids may be related to their similar behaviours and/or diets vs. those of the larger‐bodied and more mobile rabbitfish. Investigating the causes and consequences of variation in parasite communities across a broader range of fish species will be critical to understand the potential role of parasites in coral reef ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eriophyoid mites (Acariformes, Eriophyoidea) are microscopic chelicerates morphologically greatly preadapted to endoparasitism on plants. Members of at least six phylogenetically distant eriophyoid genera from two families homoplastically transitioned to endoparasitism and acquired the ability to penetrate under the plant epidermis and feed on parenchymatous cells, usually causing necrosis. Theoretically, endoparasites are expected to show patterns of codivergence with hosts more than ectoparasites. Novophytoptus Roivainen 1947 is the only eriophyoid genus comprising exclusively endoparasitic species living in subepidermal tissues of herbaceous monocots of three families of the order Poales: Cyperaceae, Juncaceae, and Poaceae. Here, we described two new endoparasitic species, N. limpopoensis n. sp. and N. zuluensis n. sp., from southern African sedges Carex spicatopaniculata Boeckeler ex C.B.Clarke and C. zuluensis C.B.Clarke, respectively, and investigated the Cox1 phylogeny of Novophytoptus. Contrary to expectations, molecular phylogenetics did not recover host-specific mite clades associated with Cyperaceae and Juncaceae, but revealed geographical groups of Novophytoptus species from Africa and Eurasia. Our results provide a substantial basis for future coevolutionary studies on novophytoptines, which will be possible when more species and sequences of Novophytoptus from geographically remote regions and from diverse hosts representing all major clades of Poales become available for analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitic plant species, such as holoparasites, develop exclusively within the tissues of their hosts, are devoid of photosynthetic capability, and cause changes in their hosts. In this study, we analyse the effects of the holoparasitic species Pilostyles blanchetii on Mimosa maguirei. We assessed the effects of the holoparasite on the architecture and development of the host plant through the height, the number of branches and the number of leaves. The influence of the holoparasite on the reproductive performance of the host was tested by evaluating the number of fruits and seeds produced by M. maguirei. The holoparasite Pilostyles blanchetii negatively affected the height of M. maguirei; however, there was a positive effect on the number of branches and leaves of the host, perhaps indicating resource manipulation by the holoparasite. In relation to reproductive performance, there was a reduction in the number of fruits and seeds in parasitized individuals. Overall, this study indicates strong changes in host plant architecture and particularly a reduction in the reproductive performance of parasitized plant individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reptiles as exotic pets become more commonly desired by society, one of which is the reticulated python. Pythons kept as pets also have a risk of disease infection including helminthiasis. Worm parasite infects snake by the oral route. Some snake feed including frogs and mice can act as an intermediate host for worm parasites. A male reticulated python was kept by a member of the Banyuwangi reptile community and was presented with healthy and normal eating habits. This case study was to determine the worm parasite in the wild-caught reticulated python kept as an exotic pet. Fresh fecal samples were stored in a container with 70% alcohol added as a preservative. The sample was then evaluated in the laboratory and examined using the native method, floatation method, and simple sedimentation method. As result, under the microscope to be the Capillaria spp. the egg was observed.

The purpose of this study was to determine the species and the prevalence value of endoparasites that infect male and female mackerel tuna (Euthynnus affinis) in Tanjung Balai Port, North Sumatra Province. This research was conducted from August to September 2020. Research on endoparasite identification was carried out at the Laboratory of the Technical Implementation Unit for the Implementation of Fishery Product Quality (UPT PMHP), Medan. The method used in this study is a survey method with direct collection at the research location. The sample was taken using random sampling techniques. Endoparasite research was conducted on 30 fish samples, divided into 15 samples of male mackerel tuna with an average size of 26.92 cm and an average weight of 258.451 g, and 15 samples of female mackerel tuna with an average size of 29.50 cm and an average weight of 352.249 g. Four genera of endoparasites were found that infect male and female mackerel tuna, namely Rhadinorhynchus sp., Echinorhynchus sp., Acanthocephalus sp., and Neoechinorhynchus sp. with the highest prevalence value, namely the type of Rhadinorhynchus sp. 6.66% in the stomach and 76.66% in the intestine, the type of Echinorhynchus sp. 3.33% in the stomach and 33.33% in the intestine, as well as Acanthocephalus sp 26.66% and Neoechinorhynchus sp 13.33% only in the intestine.

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]

A new species of Ancyracanthus , parasite of the electric eel Electrophorus varii , in the Brazilian Amazon, is described based on morphological and molecular characterization. Ancyracanthus electrophori n. sp. differs from the two congeners namely, Ancyracanthus pinnatifidus and Ancyracanthus schubarti , based on the structure of cephalic appendages, number and arrangement of caudal papillae in males, vulva very close to anus in females, eggs with smoothly mamillated shell, host taxon and geographical origin. Moreover, the new species is the first in the genus to be described with thorny cuticular rings and to be observed with the use of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The morphology of A. pinnatifidus and A. schubarti is still poorly-known and should be revised in details; however, the separation between them and the new species was clear. Genetic characterization based on 28S rDNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox 1) mtDNA partial sequences, performed for the first time in Acyracanthus , along with phylogenetic reconstructions using both genetic markers, placed Ancyracanthus electrophori n. sp. in a suggestive basal position within Gnathostomatidae. Phylogenetic reconstructions using cox 1 sequences also suggested lack of monophyly in the genera Gnathostoma and Spiroxys and, consequently, in the subfamilies Gnathostominae and Spiroxyinae. However, such results are preliminary. With the first genetic characterization and observations using SEM in Ancyracanthus , resulting in the discovery of a new species and in the expansion of the geographical occurrence of the genus to Amazonian fish, an important step towards a better understanding of these nematodes has been taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudempleurosoma haywardi has unique morphological characteristics that are specially adapted for living inside fish hosts, especially the digestive tract. The infective situations, morphological features, and phylogenetic relationships of P. haywardi in sillaginid fishes collected from the Gulf of Thailand were investigated during February 2016-February 2023. Of all 629 sillaginid fish individuals (six species) examined, ten Sillago aeolus and six S. sihama were infected by P. haywardi. The overall prevalence of the infection was 2.5%, while the mean intensity was 1.3 monogeneans/infected fish. The general morphology of P. haywardi fitted the original description, except the details of male copulatory organ (MCO); in addition, most measurement characteristics revealed a size difference between our material and those of previous studies. The molecular study based on 28S rRNA confirmed that the specimens found from our investigation were P. haywardi. Our phylogram topology revealed two major clades of the dactylogyrid lineage, and a monophyly of dactylogyrid endoparasitic fauna was demonstrated. Our study represented the first record of the endoparasitic monogenean P. haywardi in Thailand. Despite the low infection rate found in this study, fundamental information on P. haywardi, such as its host range, distribution areas, and morphological variants, was acquired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to determine the prevalence and infection degrees of endoparasite on layer chicken in Sub-district Udanawu, Blitar. Ninety-six samples were taken from layer chicken in 3 different villages namely Bakung Village, Tunjung Village, and Slemanan Village. The examinations taken in this study are fecal examination using native, sediment, and floating methods and blood examination using blood smear method. Result showed that 81.25% samples are positive for helminthiasis infection consisting of Ascaridia galli (66.67%), Heterakis gallinarum (45.83%), Raillietina sp. (31.25%), and Strongyloides avium (7.29%). Blood examination result shown there is no positive sample that infect layer chicken in Sub-district Udanawu, Blitar. Chi-Square test result showed there are significant difference (P<0.05) of Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum in Bakung Village, Tunjung Village, and Slemanan Village in Sub-district Udanawu, meanwhile there are no significant difference (P>0.05) of Raillietina sp. and Strongyloides avium. Range of infection degrees of helminthiasis in Bakung village, Tunjung village, and Slemanan Village are 608.75 ± 588.53, 223.12 ± 359.21, 156.25 ± 332.39. There are significant difference (P<0.05) on helminthiasis infection degree of layer chicken in Udanawu District, Blitar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Kosmos is the property of Polish Copernicus Society of Naturalists 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.)

The goal of this study was to assess common endoparasites on Tilapia zillii in the Tono Reservoir, as well as to investigate the mean intensity and prevalence of these parasites. A total of 175 fish specimens were examined during the study. Endoparasites of three metazoans and one protozoan were observed from the Tilapia zillii gills, intestines, and stomach. The findings showed that the most common endoparasites affecting Tilapia zillii are Ichthyopthirius multifiliis, Bothriocephalus sp., Contracaecum sp., and Dactylogyrus sp. Also, Contracaecum sp had the highest prevalence of 29.71, followed by Bothriocephalus sp (18.86), Ichthyopthirius multifiliis (12), and Dactylogyrus sp (6.86). The average quantity of Bothriocephalus sp was 0.84, Contracaecum sp was 1.33, Dactylogyrus sp was 0.31, and Ichthyopthirius multifiliis was 0.54. The reservoir's physicochemical parameters changed every month due to inflows and other runoffs joining. Low levels of these parameters were discovered to influence the prevalence and distribution of these parasites. Haematological parameters showed significant changes between the adult and fingerling groups, where it was observed an improvement in health status in the adult group. It was also observed that fingerlings (0.1-20 g) were more infected, which significantly affected their blood profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Ascodipteron Adensamer, 1896 is a small genus of bat flies distributed in tropical and subtropical areas of the Eastern Hemisphere, with 16 valid species currently known. Ascodipteron has not been taxonomically well-studied in China, where only four species have been reported. Here, a new species, Ascodipteron guoliangi sp. nov. from Fujian Province, is described, based on dealate neosomic females and supported by molecular data from the cytochrome B (Cytb) and cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) genes. A new species of the genus Ascodipteron Adensamer, 1896 (Diptera: Hippoboscidae) is described from Fujian, namely A. guoliangi sp. nov. Habitus and diagnostic details, as well as the attachment sites on the host, are documented with photographs. A detailed comparison of the new species with related species is provided and the new species is accommodated in the most recent key to the world species of Ascodipteron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elenchus yasumatsui Kifune & Hirashima (Strepsiptera: Elenchidae) is an endoparasitoid of a key rice pest, the brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens (Stål). There are few biological studies available on this species because of difficulties in making observations. Thus, the aims of this study were to investigate the morphological changes and the development periods of the E. yasumatsui male. Parasitized N. lugens by E. yasumatsui males and females were collected from rice fields and transferred to the laboratory as pairs in mating tubes. After the emerging of triungulins, 250 uninfected N. lugens were placed as hosts for 24 h and kept separately. From daily dissections, it was observed that the triungulins had elongated and flattened bodies with distinct appendages. From 2nd to 4th instar, their shape became maggot-like with an increase in size and slight changes in morphology. The pupae had sac covering its body with a dark brown pupal cap. Results also revealed that 99 triungulins, from 542, were able to parasitize and develop inside the hosts. The periods of time taken to develop into 1st instar (n = 59), 2nd instar (n = 1), 3rd instar (n = 23), 4th instar (n = 11), pupae (n = 4), and adult (n = 1) were 2-6, 4, 4-7, 4-7, 6-7, and 14 days, respectively. The critical information derived from one survivor of E. yasumatsui adult showed that the larval growth period was 10 days and the pupation time since the pupal cap extruding from the host abdomen was 3 days. During this period the adult male lasted 4.1 h. These data can be used to elucidate the actual biology of E. yasumatsui for enhancing the success of biological control in N. lugens populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endoparasitic crustacean Sacculina carcini (Cirripedia: Rhizocephala) has a much simpler morphology than conventional filter-feeding barnacles, reflecting its parasitic lifestyle. To investigate the molecular basis of its refined developmental program, we produced a draft genome sequence for comparison with the genomes of nonparasitic barnacles and characterized the transcriptomes of internal and external tissues. The comparison of clusters of orthologous genes revealed the depletion of multiple gene families but also several unanticipated expansions compared to non-parasitic crustaceans. Transcriptomic analyses comparing interna and externa tissues revealed an unexpected variation of gene expression between rootlets sampled around host midgut and thoracic ganglia. Genes associated with lipid uptake were strongly expressed by the internal tissues. We identified candidate genes probably involved in host manipulation (suppression of ecdysis and gonad development) including those encoding crustacean neurohormones and the juvenile hormone binding protein. The evolution of Rhizocephala therefore appears to have involved a rapid turnover of genes (losses and expansions) as well as the fine tuning of gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Vet Indones. The Indonesian Veterinary Journal / Jurnal Acta Veterinaria Indonesiana is the property of IPB University 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.)

Summary: Bursaphelenchus trypophloei is a common wood nematode associated with the poplar bark beetle, Trypophloeus asperatus , in European aspen, Populus tremula. The nematode develops and reproduces in larval galleries of T. asperatus and is transmitted to new breeding trees by adult beetles during their flight and oviposition. Its dispersal third-stage juveniles (DJIII) are unique because of their exceptionally early penetration into the haemocoel of the second- or third-larval stage of the future vector/host and long-term (up to 10 months) occupation of this environment. Detailed morphological/anatomical, and bionomic study revealed that while living in the vector's haemocoel the nematode dispersal/dauer juveniles pass through a series of intermittent changes with three distinct developmental phases. The sequence of these phases corresponded to the process of diapause observed in many plant and animal parasites. Throughout the period of living in the haemocoel, the nematodes remained at their dispersal juvenile stage (DJIII) but clearly increased in size and changed their morphometrics and shape of such anatomical/morphological characters as the metacorpus and tail terminus. Moreover, the juveniles apparently ingested the food from the vector's haemolymph. Specifically, in the insect haemocoel, the body of dispersal/parasitic juveniles became less transparent with most organs being obscured by an increasing amount of refractive nutrient storage granules. After penetration into the insect the process of diapause was irreversible, irrespective of the availability of food (i.e. , Leptographium spp. fungus). The nematodes could resume their further development only after the natural emergence from the vector beetle to its new galleries or a few days earlier, when mature third phase DJ (DJIII-3) juveniles were dissected from the beetle and transferred to a fresh fungal culture. The data indicate that B. trypophloei is exclusively mycetophagous when free-living in the larval galleries of its insect vector, T. asperatus , and parasitic in the haemocoel of this insect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The present study aims to report the occurrence of Eustrongylides sp. in some neotropical fish species commercialized in the Peruvian Amazonia. Methods: Samples of young farmed Arapaima gigas were collected from a fish farmer; young Brachyplatystoma tigrinum were acquired from a fish exporter and samples of adult specimens of Acestrorhynchus falcirostris, Pseudoplatystoma punctifer, Cichla monoculus, Hoplias malabaricus, Hydrolycus scomberoides, Raphiodon vulpinus, and Serrasalmus rhombeus were acquired from a fish market of Iquitos, Loreto-Peru. Samples were transported to the "Laboratorio de Parasiología y Sanidad Acuícola" from "Instituto de Investigaciones de la Amazonía Peruana" located in Iquitos, Peru. Results: Larvae L4 of Eustrongylides sp. were found in the host body, in the muscle, and in the visceral cavity of studied fish species. Notorious damages were reported in young A. gigas (lumps in the muscle, inflammation and severe redness of the skin) and in young B. tigrinum (perforation of the abdominal cavity), while in adult specimens of the remaining species, no external damage was reported. Conclusion: The presence of Eustrongylides sp. in various fish species collected in the city of Iquitos-Peru contributes to the distribution of this parasite in the Peruvian Amazon, reporting it, for the first time in this country. Its presence in the muscle of various fish species commercialized in fish markets, warm a possible public health concern and implications for their marketability in the city of Iquitos, Peru. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious disease which caused by parasite is the most serious problem in tortoise breeding. This study identifies gastrointestinal endoparasites infection on Red Foot (Chelonoidis carbonaria) during November 2020 to February 2021 in Surabaya City. Fecal samples from a tortoise, a total of 14 tortoises were collected and examined by native, sedimentation and floatation methods for parasitic eggs and oocyst. Fecal samples for this research were collected from breeding farm in Surabaya City. Data obtained from this study were presented descriptively and analyzed by Chi-Square test. Based on examination results, the occurrence of gastrointestinal endoparasite infection on Red foot was recorded at 100% from the total samples. The gastrointestinal parasites were identified as helminths and protozoa namely which is dominately by Tachygonetria spp. (14%), Angusticaecum spp. (3%), and Balantidium coli (2%) respectively. The provision of deworming medication as a curative measure by the owner is carried out regularly and continuously on tortoises that are positively infected with gastrointestinal endoparasites and prevention can be done by paying attention to the management and cleanliness of the cage to prevent potential transmission of endoparasites from the environment to the tortoise.

This study aimed to determine the prevalence rate and to identify parasites (endoparasite and ectoparasite) on Java Langur and Silvery Gibbon, these primates are rehabilitated in The Aspinall Foundation Indonesia Program. This research was conducted from February until October 2020. The fecal examination methods used in this research were native method and ovatec flotation method, while the ectoparasite examination used native method, mounting method, and scraping method. Based on a total of 68 samples examined, the result showed that 10 samples were positive infected by Trichuris trichiura and 2 samples were infested by Pedicinus ancoratus. The conclusion of this study indicated that the prevalence rate of Trichuris trichiura was 21.1% and Pedicinus ancoratus was 5.3% on 19 West Java Langurs, the prevalence rate of Trichuris trichiura was 3.3% and Pedicinus ancoratus was 3.3% on 30 East Java Langurs, the prevalence rate of Trichuris trichiura was 26.3% and no infestation of Pedicinus ancoratus was found on 19 Silvery Gibbons.

Abstract Prochilodus lineatus has been considered an ecosystem engineer in the Neotropics given its influence on important ecosystem processes, and it is therefore relevant to understand their inter-specific relationships. The association of P. lineatus with parasitic helminths was studied in two isolated shallow lakes of the alluvial plain of the Middle Paraná River. Only two species of gastrointestinal nematodes were found: Spinitectus asperus (Cystidicolidae) and Klossinemella iheringi (Atractidae), with S. asperus having higher prevalence and mean intensity values. This is the first record of K. iheringi in the Middle Paraná River, Argentina, as well as the southernmost citation of S. asperus.

We conducted a paleoparasitological study on sediment samples from two trash pits and a cesspool, collected during an archaeological assessment of a building located in the historic downtown of the city of Córdoba, Argentina. People have used these premises for residential and commercial purposes since the beginning of the seventeenth century, although the samples analyzed correspond to nineteenth-century contexts. Light microscopy examination revealed the presence of parasite eggs of whipworm (Trichuris sp.), possibly roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), and tapeworm (taeniid). The presence of these fecal-oral and food-borne transmitted helminths supports other lines of evidence that indicate poor sanitation and hygiene habits and inadequate food processing, which may have contributed to the high incidence and mortality of gastrointestinal diseases recorded at that time. The paleoparasitological data agree with the historical information on the health status of the populations that inhabited the city of Córdoba in the past, especially in relation to their habits and diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Jurnal Medik Veterinar is the property of Universitas Airlangga 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.)

Background. Automated processing of the fish caught on board a ship can potentially lead to a quality control breach. Specimens visibly infected with parasites are processed, frozen, and directed to the market. On the other hand, the removal of the body elements of taxonomic importance (e.g., fins, head, skin) opens gates to variously motivated seafood frauds. We had been alerted by local veterinary authorities about a fish consignment from the Falklands with a substantial volume of muscles with black contents. Materials and methods. The material for the presently reported study were decapitated, finless, and gutted fish delivered to our lab by the County Veterinarian of Szczecin (Purchased by a local importer from a Spanish fish wholesaler). The fish were labeled as “Pseudophycis bachus (Forster, 1801)”, and allegedly came from the Falklands. After thawing, the fish muscles were dissected, focusing on the distinctly black areas, examined following methods commonly used in parasitology, and observed under a dissecting and a compound microscope. Samples were collected also for molecular studies aiming to disclose the fish taxonomic identity. DNA barcoding gene (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, COX1) was used to perform the genetic characterization for the collected fish specimens. The degree of similarity between the new records (MT318699 and MT318700) and the other records of Moridae species in the GenBank was assessed by building COX1 gene phylogeny. Results. The muscles contained large galls filled with black fluid. The fluid stained the adjacent muscles. Inside each gall, we found a single female of Sarcotaces sp., several “dwarf” males, eggs, and newly hatched nauplius stages. Using the molecular methods, the fish were identified as Mora moro (Risso, 1810). Conclusion. A preliminary veterinary inspection of the catch on board of fishing vessels may help to avoid huge financial losses when a parasitized fish consignment is rejected by veterinary authorities on land. It is evident that the European regulation regarding fish parasites requires an urgent revision. Mora moro does not occur off the Falklands as declared by the wholesaler. This seafood fraud was probably motivated by the urge to conceal a catch from European waters and thus avoid exceeding national fishing quotas. Species of the genus Sarcotaces require a revision backed by molecular methods.