Journal articles on the topic 'Endoparasite infestation'

SUMMARYWe address the question of whether host and/or environmental factors might affect endoparasite richness and distribution, using carnivores as a model. We reviewed studies published in international peer-reviewed journals (34 areas in the Iberian Peninsula), describing parasite prevalence and richness in carnivores, and collected information on site location, host bio-ecology, climate and detected taxa (Helminths, Protozoa andMycobacteriumspp.). Three hypotheses were tested (i) host based, (ii) environmentally based, and (iii) hybrid (combination of environmental and host). Multicollinearity reduced candidate variable number for modelling to 5: host weight, phylogenetic independent contrasts (host weight), mean annual temperature, host trophic level and biogeographical region. General Linear Mixed Modelling was used and the best model was a hybrid model that included biogeographical region and host trophic level. Results revealed that endoparasite richness is higher in Mediterranean areas, especially for the top predators. We suggest that the detected parasites may benefit from mild environmental conditions that occur in southern regions. Top predators have larger home ranges and are likely to be subjected to cascading effects throughout the food web, resulting in more infestation opportunities and potentially higher endoparasite richness. This study suggests that richness may be more affected by historical and regional processes (including climate) than by host ecological processes.

SUMMARYMeerkats are one of the most endearing of South African's wildlife celebrities and one of the most highly studied social mammals. However, although parasites are widely recognized as important regulatory factors in animal population, basic knowledge on meerkats’ parasites is lacking. Here 100 fresh fecal samples of wild meerkats were examined for the presence of endoparasitic infection. Endoparasitic taxa identified by the presence of eggs or oocysts includedToxocara suricattae,Oxynema suricattae,Pseudandrya suricattae,Cystoisosporasp. andEimeriasp. Non-specific diagnoses were made for parasites in the Order Strongylida, Order Spirurida and coccidian based on the morphology and size of the eggs and oocysts. The prevalence of infection withT. suricattaeand the strongylate species increased with age, while prevalence of coccidia and intensity of infection by the strongylate species increased with decreasing group size, suggesting that stress associated with living in smaller group may increase susceptibility to parasitism. Moreover, parasite communities were more similar between individuals from the same group than between individuals from different groups, suggesting an important role of the environment in parasite infestation. We did not detect any differences between males and females. This study represents the first detailed report of gastrointestinal parasites in wild meerkats, and is a key starting point for future studies on the effect of endoparasite load in the life history of this species.

Acarapidosis is a dangerous quarantine disease of honey bees caused by an obligate tracheal endoparasite of bees, the mite Acarapis woodi. Infestation by A. woodi leads to depletion of the hemolymph, blockage of the trachea, and, as a result, death of the bee. The high level of infestation in colonies can lead to the death of families and cause serious economic damage. Therefore, acarapidosis in Russia is classified as a quarantine invasion. In Russia, the disease was first recorded in 1926, and since then it has been observed in a number of regions of the European part and in the Urals. By the early nineties, the disease was considered eliminated in Russia due to acaricides massively used to control another dangerous mite-borne disease, varroatosis. However, as the review of literature and reports from organizations engaging in surveillance for diseases of agricultural animals shows, there have been many new cases of acarapidosis over the past thirty years. This disease has spread over all large geographic regions of Russia, and the number of cases of acarapidosis are identified every year. Thus, this neglected disease requires to be strictly controlled to prevent its distribution.

Concerning infectious diseases in hunting dogs, parasites represent an important etiological agent. Among zoonotic diseases, parasitosis, and in particular, helminthosis can cause serious public health concern. This study was performed to investigate infestations with endoparasites in hunting dogs. A total of 43 faecal samples from owned hunting dogs were collected, and were examined for the presence of endoparasites. The overall prevalence of endoparasitic infestation was 65, 15% and six species were found: Trichuris vulpis (44.19%), Ancylostoma caninum (27.91%), Capillaria spp. (16.28%), Isospora spp. (11.63%), Toxocara canis (9.30%), Toxascaris leonina (2.32%). The prevalence of endoparasites with zoonotic potential was 39.53%. These data are of importance for veterinarians in clinical practice, dealing with antiparasitic treatment and choosing appropriate antiparasitic drug for hunting dogs. Due to this, veterinarians should play an important role in helping to prevent or minimize zoonotic transmission of the parasites.

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.

The potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida is a globally regulated potato pest. It was detected for the first time in the United States in the state of Idaho in 2006, and as of February 2019, the infestation is limited to 1,326 hectares. G. pallida is a specialized obligate sedentary endoparasite that can survive in the soil for up to 30 years in the absence of its potato host. In highly infested fields, the nematode can reduce tuber yields up to 80% and is spread mainly through the movement of soil, tubers, or farm equipment. The objectives of this study were to describe the spatiotemporal pattern of G. pallida in infested fields and model its dispersal patterns in southeastern Idaho. We used geostatistical tools and simulation models for precise mapping and to describe the relationships between G. pallida incidence and the spatial configurations. We found that the nematode is spatially clustered and prevalent around edges of fields, and its dispersal pattern followed the direction of cultivation. We found that the absence of potato in an infested field significantly reduced the number of cysts sampled each year subsequent to the initial delimitation sampling in 2007. Phytosanitary measures prohibiting the growth of potato contributed to stopping nematode reproduction, and the use of chemical fumigants and biofumigant cover crops contributed to a significant reduction in egg viability. We observed a process of a nonlinear decline in the prevalence of cysts as the distance separation from the primary infestation focus increased. A power law model was used to fit G. pallida dispersal capabilities. This study contributed to describing G. pallida infestation for Idaho. The goal of this study is to provide information on the spatial pattern and landscape ecology of G. pallida in Idaho for policy makers, industry, and researchers as well as facilitate common understandings on the challenges and opportunities for controlling this pest in Idaho.

Background: Head lice infestation is considered a prominent issue because of its worldwide distribution, especially among children. Millions of children are infested with pediculosis capitis every year. The increasing rate of lice infestation has been reported even in the developed countries due to the resistance to known pediculicides. Besides, the louse is a vector for serious diseases, such as epidemic typhus fever. Objective: The aim of this work was the search for a new cheap and effective drug for pediculosis capitis. 2% ivermectin solution, a promising novel drug used for endoparasite and ectoparasite infections, was used in this study. Materials and Methods: This was a clinical trial study. The in vitro study was carried out in a period of five months. Samples of nits and lice were collected from female patients of the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Baghdad Teaching Hospital. The study was conducted during a period from October 2002 through November 2003. One hundred fifty children from four primary schools in Hayy Al-A’amel, Baghdad, participated in this part of the study. The preparation was applied to the children by the author. One hundred children were tested with ivermectin solution and fifty children with rectified spirit. The first part of the study involved a parasitological evaluation (in vitro study) of pediculicidal and ovicidal activity, in which 4% ivermectin solution was discontinued because of contact dermatitis. Therefore, 2% ivermectin solution was used instead. Pediculicidal and ovicidal activity was examined half an hour afterward. The second part of the study involved a clinical evaluation (in situ study) of 2% ivermectin solution for half an hour. Results: Topical 2% ivermectin solution in rectified spirit is a good pediculicidal (100%) and a good ovicidal (88%) drug with good therapeutic efficacy (82% after the first application, 90% after the second application) against pediculosis capitis. Conclusion: The study described a novel topical preparation for pediculosis capitis, which was proven effective and safe.

The purpose of this study was to determine endoparasitic infestation on Buffaloes in Praya Barat district, Central Lombok. Stools samples were taken from 61 buffaloes from 5 villages and examined at Banyumulek Animal Health Laboratory of Animal Husbandry and Animal Health Service of NTB Province using the floating and sedimentation methods to perceive the presence of parasitic eggs. The data obtained were analyzed descriptively. The results show that from 61 fecal samples analyzed, 20 samples (32.7%) were positively infected with endoparasites with a single type of infection and multi-species infection. A total of 13 samples (21.3%) were infected with Nematodes, 2 samples (3.27%) were infected with Cestode, 2 samples (3.27%) were infected with Trematode and 11 samples (18.03%) were infected with Protozoa. The degree of endoparasitic infection in buffaloes in West Praya district is included in the category of mild infection. Endoparasites that infect buffaloes in Praya Barat are coming from family Toxocaridae, Trichostrongylidae, Cooperidae, Anoplocephalidae, Strongylidae, Strongyloididae, Chabertidae, Fasciolidae and Eimeriidae. The highest prevalence for worm parasite was Toxocaridae with the percentage of 11.46%, whilst for the protozoa was the family of Eimeriidae accounted for 18.01%.

Community structure of metazoan endoparasites of Anabas testudineus collected from an unpolluted and a polluted water body was determined. Out of 100 A. testudineus observed, 78% was parasitized by at least one species of endohelminth parasite. Eight metazoan endoparasites were recorded. Nematode showed higher prevalence than trematode. One species was accounted as satellite species and others as secondary. Larger hosts were more abundantly infected than the smaller ones as positive correlation was observed between the standard length of the hosts and the abundance/ prevalence of all parasites. Maximum parasite species followed a typical overdispersed type of distribution pattern. Parasite species richness was lower in fish from polluted (4) than unpolluted water (6). Per cent similarity of infestation between the sample hosts was high (55.73%). Three common parasite species from both sample hosts showed insignificant difference in intensity of infestation in relation to host habitat. Host sex had influenced infestation at infra?community but not at component community level. Interspecies association between parasites was strong in fish from unpolluted in comparision from polluted water. Host’s habitat quality also played an influential role in building parasite community, diversity and other associated community indices. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v23i1.19823 Dhaka Univ. J. Biol. Sci. 23(1): 27-38, 2014

A study was carried out to identify and estimate the prevalence of ecto- and endoparasites of village chicken between April and July 2008 in three local councils of Enugu state, Nigeria. A total of 1038 chickens comprising of 468 chicks, 207 growers and 363 adults were examined during the house to house survey for ectoparasites, gastrointestinal helminths and coccidia infections. Our finding showed that 41% were infected with ectoparasites with lice, fleas, and mites having prevalence rates of 62.2%, 35.7% and 2.1%, respectively. Helminths and coccidia had prevalence of 35.5% each. Among the helminthsAscaridia, galliwas the most dominant species (17.2%). Generally, there was a significantly higher helminth infestation relative to the ectoparasites (), high prevalence of mixed infections and absence of tick infestation. Parasitism could be big constraint to production in the study area and we recommend a sustainable control strategy.

Recently, tangible results have been achieved in veterinary medicine in the use of biological methods for combating zoophilic insects and ectoparasites, and the use of microbiological and pyrethroid preparations with a plant base. Zoophilic insects and mites as ecto- and endoparasites parasitize on the body of animals and humans cause infestation, that is, parasitosis (entomoses and acarosis), as a result of which the milk productivity of cattle decreases to 30-40 percent, meat productivity annually decreases by 10-12 kilograms, and also negatively affect the growth and development of young animals and lead to death.

INTRODUCTION: Leeches are blood sucking parasites of the phylum Amelida subgroup Hirudinea. Leech infestation is known as hirudiniasis. Endoparasitic infestation by leech is rarely reported in literature. The parasites enter the body by bathing or drinking infected water. They attach to the mucosa of the aerodigestive tract and suck blood whereby greatly increasing in size, with resultant clinical symptoms. CASE REPORT: A 52 year male presented with unilateral epistaxis and nasal obstruction. Nasal examination revealed a live leech. The leech was found lodged in the nasopharynx. The patient was unaware of the leech in his body. The leech was removed alive with the use of a nasal endoscope under local anaesthesia. DISCUSSION : Leech infestation is a rare cause of epistaxis. Absence of pain and difficult visualisation make the diagnosis difficult and delayed. There are various methods described in literature to remove leeches from the body. General anaesthesia may be required for its removal especially in children and when the leech is lodged in the tracheobronchial tree. CONCLUSION : The aim of presentation is to report a rare unusual cause of epistaxis, leech infestation of the nasopharynx and method of removal of the leech safely under local anaesthesia.

A novel virus, Brevicoryne brassicae virus (BrBV), has been identified in the cabbage aphid using a method based on the random amplification of encapsidated RNA. The complete sequence of the RNA genome of BrBV has been determined. The positive-strand genomic RNA is 10 161 nt, excluding the 3′ poly(A) tail, and contains a single open reading frame (positions 793–9744) encoding a putative polyprotein of 2983 aa. The N-terminal part of the polyprotein shows similarity with the structural proteins of iflaviruses. The C-terminal part possesses consensus sequences of the helicase, cysteine protease and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase similar to those of iflaviruses and other picorna-like viruses. The highest sequence similarity observed was with iflaviruses from honeybee and an endoparasitic wasp. Replication and transmission of BrBV was not dependent on endoparasitic wasp infestation of the aphids.

Recently, in various countries of the world, in particular, the USA, Germany, Canada, India and Russia, tangible results have been achieved in the use of biological methods for combating zoophilic insects and ecoparasites, the use of microbiological and pyrethroid preparations with a plant base. Zoophilic insects and mites as ecto- and endoparasites parasitize on the body of animals and people cause infestation, that is, parasitosis (entomoses and acarosis), as a result of which the milk productivity of cattle decreases to 30-40 percent, meat productivity annually decreases by 10-12 kilograms, and also negatively affect the growth and development of young animals and lead to death.

In ostrich farming is difficult to obtain the necessary production and economic results without protection of bird health. We determined the incidence of parasitic ostriches during the period of growing and keeping on specialized eco-zoos. Samples from small and large farms, as well as eco-parks in Kharkiv, Dnepr and Donetsk regions of Ukraine, were examined during 2016- 2020. We performed a parasitological study of 159 samples from three species of ostriches (black African ostrich, Australian common Emu (Dromaius), Rhea). Infestation of ostriches of different ages with two types of nematodes and Eimeria was established. We determoined that the population of ostriches in specialized farms and eco-zoos was infested with nematodes and protozoa with an extensiveness of invasion from 7.7% to 71.4% among adult birds, while young ostriches were infested with Emeria from 20.0% to 44.4%. The largest invasion by helminths and protozoa was observed among black African ostriches in Kharkiv region (41.4%), in Dnepr region it was 33.3%, and in Donetsk it reached 34.1%. Among the livestock of ostriches, there were both mono and mixinvasions. Most often, this was an invasion by Trichostrongylus spp. and Eimeria spp. in African black ostriches, capillaries and Eimeria in Emu. In Kharkiv region, the invasion of Capillaria by Trichostrongylus in African ostriches and Trichostrongylus in Emu were found when they were kept together. Acute and chronic eimeriosis disease can lead to the death of ostriches at the age of 3-4 months.

AbstractThe infestation of honey bees by the endoparasitic tracheal mite Acarapis woodi was first discovered in Apis mellifera on the Isle of Wight, England, and the mite has since spread to all continents except Australia. Since 2010, this tracheal mite has spread rapidly in the Japanese honey bee, Apis cerana japonica, of mainland Japan, causing considerable colony mortality. In contrast, infestations by the mites in the imported and managed European honey bee, A. mellifera, have rarely been observed in Japan. A previous laboratory experiment revealed a difference in susceptibility by demonstrating that the tracheal mite more frequently enters tracheae of A. cerana than those of A. mellifera. In this study, we compared autogrooming responses of A. cerana and A. mellifera by depositing a mite on each honey bee’s mesoscutum, and we then assessed the efficacy of autogrooming to remove the mite. The bees that received mites more frequently showed an autogrooming response compared to unchallenged bees in both bee species. However, a significantly greater proportion of A. mellifera individuals autogroomed compared to A. cerana. In addition, when bees autogroomed, A. mellifera removed the tracheal mite more effectively than A. cerana. When considering all bees in the mite-deposited group, the proportion of mite removal in A. mellifera was almost twice as high as that in A. cerana. Thus, the difference in susceptibility to the tracheal mite between these two bee species is attributed to the difference in the behavioral response threshold to mites and the effectiveness of mite removal by grooming.

Soil samples were collected in Western Australia from cereal fields at about harvest time to determine levels of the endoparasitic nematodes, Pratylenchus and Heterodera. A systematic survey in 1997 and 1998 centred on the 40 shires with the highest proportion of cereal cropping. One hundred and eighty samples were collected in 1997 and 227 in 1998 at 10-km intervals along north–south transects 35 km apart. A targeted survey in 1997 included 98 soil samples from fields selected by growers as having poor productivity without an evident cause. No Heterodera cysts were found in any survey sample but these could be extracted from soils previously known to be infested. Pratylenchus neglectus was most commonly detected followed by P. thornei and P. zeae. Populations identified as P. brachyurus, P. penetrans, P. scribneri, and an undescribed species similar to P. thornei were also found. Overall Pratylenchus was extracted from 63% of samples (mean 1.1, median 0.3, max. 22.0/mL of soil). Maps of the data indicate that Pratylenchus populations were aggregated with some areas having relatively light infestations. There was a positive relationship with the intensity of cereal cropping and a negative relationship with pulse cropping. The findings indicate that potentially damaging Pratylenchus numbers occur in a significant proportion of fields and highlight the need to develop and implement strategies to lower population densities.

Lernaea cyprinacea is a non host-specific parasitic copepod known to infest many freshwater fish species. Outbreaks of infestations by this ectoparasite may cause mass mortality of parasitized fishes. L. cyprinacea has been found mostly on pelagic species. Records on small benthic fish species are less common. Especially rare are infestations of Gobioidei adapted to a benthic life style, with reports restricted to Asia and, in Europe, to the Ponto-Caspian region. Although it is cosmopolitan, L. cyprinacea has rarely been found in Italy. One of the few Italian localities with documented infestations is Lake Trasimeno, a lake with an economically important fishery. Although endoparasites of commercially interesting fish species in this lake are well documented, information about ectoparasites is rare. In May 2015, specimens of two gobioids − Knipowitschia panizzae and Pomatoschistus canestrinii − infested with L. cyprinacea were sampled at the south shore of Lake Trasimeno. Both gobies are not native to the lake. This is the first documentation of gobioid fishes as hosts of L. cyprinacea in Italy and in Europe (outside of the Ponto-Caspian region). Although both gobies are not optimal hosts (small size, short life expectancy) they have the potential to carry and to transmit the parasite in freshwater habitats, e.g. by unintentional introduction with fry of other fish species.

Abstract More than 30 dog parasite species have been identified in Bosnia and Herzegovina so far, and half of these are zoonotic. The aim of the study was to investigate the occurrence of parasitic infections in dogs from Bosnian-podrinje canton with a focus on zoonotic parasites. The study included 212 dogs (107 owned and 105 stray). One or more of the twenty parasite species were found in 82.55% of tested samples. Dicrocoelium dendriticum (Class Trematoda) was found in 0.94% of dogs. Dipylidium caninum and Mesocestoides lineatus (Class Cestoda) were found in 7.55% and 0.94% of dogs, respectively. Taenia spp. and Echinococcus spp. (Family Taeniidae) were found in 0.47% and 0.94% of samples, respectively. In the family of Nematoda, the following parasite species were identified with corresponding percent among tested dogs: Toxocara canis (25.94%), Toxascaris leonine (8.96%), Strongyloides stercoralis (0.47%), Ancylostoma caninum (3.77%), Uncinaria stenocephala (52.36%), Trichuris vulpis (22.17%), Eucoleus aerophilus (1.42%), Dirofilaria immitis (1.89%) and Dirofilaria repens (1.42%). In the kingdom of Protozoa, the following parasite species were identified with corresponding percent among tested dogs: Cystoisospora canis (8.49%), C. ohioensis (2.36%), Cryptosporidium spp. (4.72%), Sarcocystis spp. (0.47%), Babesia spp. (5.19%), and Giardia duodenalis (15.57%). Leishmania infantum was not identified in tested samples. The results showed a high level of parasitic infestation in the dog population in the Bosnian-Podrinje canton, with a high occurrence of zoonotic parasites. Significant differences were found between owned and stray dogs for all classes of detected parasites with exception of the class Trematoda, disregarding specific parasite species.

The study was conducted to collect and identify helminth parasites of Mastacembalus armatus and also to determine the prevalence intensity and abundance of parasitic infection. 118 M. armatus, obtained from different sampling stations of Yamuna river between March 2008 to February 2009 were examined for endoparasitic helminth infections. Of these only 31 fishes were found infected. Four helminth species including one nematode (Ascaridia ganpatii), two cestodes (Polyonchobothrium armatii, Senga nayari) and one trematode (Eucreadium pandeyi)were found in host fish. The over all monthly infestation of prevalence (0.29), intensity (3.28) and abundance (1.13) were recorded. The maximum infection was recorded in middle size range while very small and larger fishes showed lesser susceptibility to helminth parasites.

High infection rates of olive feeder roots and soil infestation by the cyst-forming nematode Heterodera mediterranea were found in commercial olive orchards cv. Manzanilla established in sandy soils at two localities of Sevilla Province of Andalucía, southern Spain. No disease symptoms were noted on the aboveground plant parts, but slightly distorted feeder roots and necrotic areas were observed near the infection points. Sedentary juvenile stages and adult females showed a semi-endoparasitic feeding habit. Histopathological studies of infected olive roots showed a disease response typical of cyst nematode infection of susceptible hosts. Nematode feeding induced syncytial formation involving cellular alterations in the cortex, endoder-mis, pericycle, and vascular parenchyma tissues in both cortical and endodermal root cells.

Red pandas are known to be highly susceptible to endoparasites, which can have a prominent impact on the population dynamics of this endangered species. There are very limited published reports on prevalence and risk of parasites in wild populations of red panda, especially localized reports. This study attempts to provide an in-depth insight of the status of endoparasites in red pandas, which is critical for strengthening conservation efforts. A total of 272 fecal samples were collected through systematic sampling across the red panda distribution range in Nepal and coprological examination was completed using standard techniques. It was followed by an estimation of prevalence and mean intensity of parasites, as well as statistical analysis, which was carried out using R statistical software. Parasite prevalence was documented in 90.80% (n = 247) out of 272 samples examined which includes seven different species along with three genera of parasites belonging to Protozoans (3 species), Cestodes (1 genus, 1 species) and Nematodes (2 genera, 3 species). Nematodes predominated in all infected samples (87.62%). Prevalence ofAncyclostoma duodenale(n = 227, 70.06%), having a mean intensity of 3.45 ± 2.88 individuals per sample, was observed, followed byAscaris lumbricoides(n = 19, 5.86%) andEntamoeba histolytica(n = 24, 7.41%). Eight variables for assessing the determinants of infestation were tested: protected areas; non-protected areas; aspect; elevation; slope; and distance to water sources, herding stations, and settlements. Only the settlement displayed significant association (β= −1534e−04,t = − 2.192,p = 0.0293) though each parasite species displayed dissimilar association with different variables. This study indicates the urgent need of improving existing herding practice through habitat zonation, rotational grazing, medication of livestock, and prohibition of open defecation within and around red panda habitat.

AbstractThe knowledge on the distribution and abundance of marine parasites is still limited, even for those occurring on relatively well studied host species with high ecological importance. Here we report on the first record of the entoniscid Portunion maenadis (Giard, 1886) in European shore crabs (Carcinus maenas L., 1758) in the Wadden Sea and provide a quantitative review of the parasite’s distribution in Europe based on published literature and biodiversity database records. Our new record closes a distribution gap of P. maenadis between previous southern observations in Portugal and France and northern occurrences in Denmark and Sweden. The additional literature survey suggests that P. maenadis is not very common and only occurs at scattered localities with prevalence of infestations usually well below 10% in host crab populations. However, the 45% prevalence observed in our study in November 2018 in the southern Wadden Sea indicates that also higher prevalences can occur. As the adult parasites feed on their host’s hemolymph they are likely to have consequences for the host’s energy budgets. In addition, infestations lead to morphological changes in the form of feminisation of male crabs (i.e. broader pleon, slender claws, bulging carapace) which we observed in several individuals. With this new record and literature review, we hope to spark future research into the distribution of this intriguing parasite species as well as on the impacts of infestations on shore crab hosts.

Abstract Severe root infection of wild olive (Olea europea L. ssp. sylvestris), together with heavy soil infestation by the reniform nematode Rotylenchulus macrosoma, was detected in a natural wild olive orchard on sandy soil in Cádiz province, Andalucía, southern Spain. Most, but not all, of the morphometric characters of this population agreed with those reported for immature and adult females and males in previously studied populations. Sedentary immature and mature females showed a semi-endoparasitic feeding habit in wild and cultivated olives (cvs Arbequina and Picual). Naturally infected roots of wild olive responded to nematode infection identically to artificially infected olive planting stocks. The feeding site induced by R. macrosoma on olive roots consists of a stelar syncytium, which originates from an endodermal cell enlarging by a curved sheet of pericycle cells formed by hypertrophy of pericycle cells adjacent to the feeding cell. There were obvious anatomical differences between the feeding sites induced by R. macrosoma and R. macrodoratus on olive roots.

A unique specimen of the micromorphic fossil lingulate (organophosphatic-shelled) brachiopod Linnarssonia constans Koneva, 1983 from the late Lower Cambrian Shabakty Group of the Malyi Karatau Range in Kazakhstan, Central Asia, preserves evidence of infestation within the mantle cavity by a vermiform animal, leading to the growth of an internal tubular protuberance (Fig. 1) resulting from symbiosis some 520 million years ago. Examples of symbiotic relationships between metazoans in the early Paleozoic are sparse (Conway Morris, 1981, 1990; Conway Morris and Crompton, 1982). Descriptions of a variety of galls and tumorlike swellings in some trilobites extend records back to the Middle Cambrian (Conway Morris, 1990), but their interpretation as traces of endoparasitic activity remains somewhat speculative. Thus galllike swellings on the stems of Silurian echinoderms (Franzen, 1974), vermiform tubes on some early Ordovician dendroid graptolites (Conway Morris, 1990), and various tubes and blisters on graptoloid graptolites (see Bates and Loydell, 2000 for review) are among the hitherto earliest known convincing records of host-parasite relationships within metazoans. Our example reported here predates the oldest of these previous records by approximately 35 to 40 million years, and demonstrates that symbiosis involving complex adaptations (e.g., larval settlement on or within living tissue and exploitation of feeding systems of the host) and codependent life cycles were already established soon after the ‘explosive’ evolutionary radiation of marine metazoans in the early Cambrian. The fossil evidence of infestation on lophophorates is especially sparse, at best. The oldest hitherto undoubted records are both from brachiopods of Devonian age, in the Lower Devonian Emsian Stage of eastern Australia and in the Middle Devonian Givetian Stage of the Holy Cross Mountains in Poland, respectively.

A study was conducted to ascertain the health of winter flounder (Pleuronectes americanus) sampled near a naval facility contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), using length-mass relationship, hematological values, histopathology, and parasitism as bioindicators of stress. Samples were collected by SCUBA divers about 2 km (Broad Cove) and 5 km (Fox Harbour) down-current from the dockyard and a reference site (Fox Island) 5 km offshore in Placentia Bay, Newfoundland. Length, mass, and condition factor were significantly greater in both sexes sampled at the reference site than at the two contaminated sites, whereas macroscopic anomalies, including fin necrosis, infestation with ectoparasitic metacercariae of the digenean Cryptocotyle lingua, and histopathological lesions in the liver, kidney, spleen, and gills, were more frequent at the latter locations. A greater variety of prey were consumed by fish taken at Fox Island than at Fox Harbour, while food was absent in several samples from Broad Cove. Three endoparasites, Ceratomyxa acadiensis, Echinorhynchus gadi, and Steringophorus furciger, were less prevalent and abundant in flounder sampled at Broad Cove than at the other two sites. These results suggest a connection between PCB contamination and impaired fish health. In addition, anomalies were more prevalent in samples collected nearest to the contaminated site than in those collected farther away.

Clinostomum metacercariae are common endoparasites of fish and frogs. In this study, we examine taxonomic identity and developmental strategy of Clinostomum metacercariae infesting reed frogs Hyperolius kivuensis and H. viridiflavus in Rwanda. Moreover, we evaluate the impact of infestation on demographic and morphological life-history traits of the hosts. Morphological and molecular features, particularly genital morphology and COX1 sequences, provided evidence that the metacercariae belong to C. chabaudi Vercammen-Grandjean, 1960. Depending on the host’s defensive behavior and the availability of resources, metacercariae develop either as sedentary “yellow grubs” encysted in the lymphatic sacs or mouth of the host or as initially encysted, but later free-ranging individuals invading the host´s body cavity. Nutrition on lymphatic fluid within the cyst leads to yellow-colored gut content, feeding on blood or host tissue, to brownish green gut content in free-ranging individuals. Almost all metacercariae opted for the first developmental strategy in H. kivuensis, whereas the second strategy dominated in metacercariae infesting H. viridiflavus. Hyperolius kivuensis suffered significant morphological modifications, when infested with encysted metacercariae. Both developmental modes permitted a coexistence with the host of less than one year. We hypothesize that the presence of alternative development modes is an adaptation of C. chabaudi to cope with resource limitation within host-produced cysts.

AbstractA survey for ectoparasites and gastrointestinal helminths was conducted in 150 chickens raised in a traditional backyard production system. The chickens were randomly selected from six sites in three agro-climatic zones in central Ethiopia, namely Bekoji and Chancho (highland), Woliso and Teji (midland), and Metehara and Zeway Dugda (lowland). The study indicated that in the three agro-climatic zones 126 (84%), 108 (72%) and 97 (64.67%) of the examined chickens were harbouring ectoparasites, nematodes and cestodes respectively. Out of 10 species of ectoparasites, Menacanthus stramineus (40%) was the most frequent species. Postmortem examinations revealed the presence of four species of nematodes (Ascaridia galli, Heterakis gallinarum, Subulura brumpti and Capillaria caudinflata) and four species of cestodes (Raillietina echinobothrida, R. tetragona, R. cesticillus and Choanotaenia infundibulum). The ectoparasite infestation was found to be sex specific in chicken, being significantly higher (P<0.05) in males. On the other hand, endoparasitic infection showed no such difference (P>0.05). No difference was found among the three agro-climatic zones in the frequency of ectoparasite and nematode infection. However, a significant difference (P<0.05) in the frequency of cestode infection among the three zones was observed.

Eenymeenymyzostoma nigrocorallium n. sp. is the first species of myzostomid worm associated with black corals to be described. Endoparasitic specimens of E. nigrocorallium were found associated with three species of antipatharians on the Great Reef of Toliara. Individuals inhabit the gastrovascular ducts of their hosts and evidence of infestation is, most of the time, not visible externally. Phylogenetic analyses based on 18S rDNA, 16S rDNA and COI data indicate a close relation to Eenymeenymyzostoma cirripedium, the only other species of the genus. The morphology of E. nigrocorallium is very unusual compared to that of the more conventional E. cirripedium. The new species has five pairs of extremely reduced parapodia located on the body margin and no introvert, cirri or lateral organs. Individuals are hermaphroditic, with the male and female gonads both being located dorsally in the trunk. It also has a highly developed parenchymo-muscular layer on the ventral side, and the digestive system lies in the middle part of the trunk. A three-dimensional digital model of this worm’s body plan has been constructed whereby the external morphology and in toto views of the observed organ systems (nervous, digestive and reproductive) can be viewed on-screen: http://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.17911.21923.

Nymphonella tapetis (Pycnogonida, Ascorhynchidae) is an endoparasitic sea spider affecting bivalves. Recently, sea spiders have been found on a massive scale in the commercially important Manila clams (Veneridae, Ruditapes philippinarum) in Japan (Tokyo Bay). Simultaneously, mass mortality has occurred in this area. Local fishers assumed that this mass mortality was caused by the parasitic sea spider, despite the effect of the parasite and parasite intensity on the host being unknown. To evaluate the susceptibility of the Manila clam to sea spider infestation and the impact on mortality levels, we established six treatments at different infection intensities (density of newly hatched larvae of sea spiders) over a 6-month long laboratory experiment. We monitored mortality and three susceptibility indices (clearance rate, sand-burrowing speed and adductor muscle strength) under sufficient food conditions. Parasitization by sea spider affected clearance rate and sand-burrowing speed. The pattern of parasitic intensity effects on survival of Manila clam hosts was shown to be dependent on the levels of parasite numbers, i.e. clams with lower parasitic levels (total of <200 hatching larvae of sea spider given to a host) have a higher survival rate, and high mortality of host clams was shown in excessively higher parasitic densities (400–4000 individuals). Such pattern of parasitic effects on host survival might be one of the causes of mass mortality of Manila clams occurring in the field.

Trichuriasis is the clinical disease of animals infected with the parasite of the genus Trichuris. This review attempts to present information on Trichuris spp. infestation in neo-tropical rodents that are utilized for meat consumption by humans. Neo-tropical rodents utilized for meat production can be divided into two categories: those that have been domesticated, which include the guinea pig (Cavia porcellus), and those that are on the verge of domestication, such as the capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris), lappe (Cuniculus paca/Agouti paca), and agouti (Dasyprocta leporina). This document reviews the literature on the species of Trichuris that affects the rodents mentioned above, as well as the clinical signs observed. The literature obtained spans over sixty years, from 1951 to 2020. Trichuris spp. was found in these neo-tropical rodents mentioned. However, there is a dearth of information on the species of Trichuris that parasitize these animals. The capybara was the only rodent where some molecular techniques were used to identify a new species named T. cutillasae. In most cases, Trichuris spp. was found in combination with other endoparasites, and was found at a low prevalence in the lappe and guinea pig. The presence of Trichuris spp. ranged from 4.62–53.85% in the agouti, 4.21–10.00% in the lappe, 50% in the capybaras, and 1–31% in guinea pigs. Further work must be done towards molecular identification of various Trichuris spp. present in these rodents, as well as the clinical effect of infection on the performance of agouti, lappe, capybara, and guinea pigs.

To study the parasitism in goats in relation to different feeding systems, 1110 goats from different areas of Jaypurhat, Tangail, Netrakona and Mymensingh districts were examined. By fecal sample examination, 76.5% goats were found to be infected with one or more species of endoparasites. In this study, 9 types of helminths’ ova were identified such as Fasciola gigantica (14.8%), Paramphistomum sp. (28.5%), Schistosoma indicum (3.2%), strongyles (35%), Strongyloides sp. (17.4%), Toxocara spp. (1.5%), Trichuris sp. (4.6%), Capillaria sp. (1.2%) and Moniezia sp. (3.7%). Two types of protozoa were also detected, namely, Eimeria sp. (7.1%) and Balantidium coli (5.5%). Along with these, five species of ectoparasites were found: two species were lice such as Damilinia caprae (13.9 %) and Linognathus vitulli (4.2%), and two species were ticks namely, Haemophysalis bispinosa (21.2%), Rhipicaphalus (Boophilus) microplus (3.6%) and one species was mite, namely, Demodex sp. (2.9%). Mean parasitic burden of Paramphistomum sp. (259.81 ± 3.35) was the highest followed by Eimeria sp. (224.1 ± 16.9) and Moniezia sp. (204.9 ± 19.7). Prevalence of helminths and protozoa was significantly (P<0.01) highest in extensive system (86.1%) followed by semi-intensive (76.3%) and intensive system (57.5%). Ova of Schistosoma indicum was absent in the fecal sample of goats of intensive system. Goats of extensive and semi-intensive systems were 4.6 and 2.4 times more susceptible to helminth infection than those of intensive system. Ectoparasitic infestation was the highest in semi-intensive system (59.7%) followed by extensive system (33.5%) and intensive system (8.2%). In conclusion, the present study suggests that feeding system has a great impact on the prevalence of parasites in Black Bengal goats. Further study can be carried out to determine the effect of parasitism in the production performance of Black Bengal goats.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v22i1-2.16470 Progress. Agric. 22(1 & 2): 85-95, 2011

Ivermectin is considered to be a wonder drug due to its broad-spectrum antiparasitic activity against both ectoparasites and endoparasites (under class of endectocide) and has multiple applications in both veterinary and human medicine. In particular, ivermectin is commonly used in the treatment of different kinds of infections and infestations. By altering the vehicles used in the formulations, the pharmacokinetic properties of different ivermectin preparations can be altered. Since its development, various vehicles have been evaluated to assess the efficacy, safety, and therapeutic systemic concentrations of ivermectin in different species. A subcutaneous route of administration is preferred over a topical or an oral route for ivermectin due to superior bioavailability. Different formulations of ivermectin have been developed over the years, such as stabilized aqueous formulations, osmotic pumps, controlled release capsules, silicone carriers, zein microspheres, biodegradable microparticulate drug delivery systems, lipid nanocapsules, solid lipid nanoparticles, sustained-release ivermectin varnish, sustained-release ivermectin-loaded solid dispersion suspension, and biodegradable subcutaneous implants. However, several reports of ivermectin resistance have been identified in different parts of the world over the past few years. Continuous use of suboptimal formulations or sub-therapeutic plasma concentrations may predispose an individual to resistance toward ivermectin. The current research trend is focused toward the need for developing ivermectin formulations that are stable, effective, and safe and that reduce the number of doses required for complete clinical cure in different parasitic diseases. Therefore, single-dose long-acting preparations of ivermectin that provide effective therapeutic drug concentrations need to be developed and commercialized, which may revolutionize drug therapy and prophylaxis against various parasitic diseases in the near future. The present review highlights the current advances in pharmacokinetic modulation of ivermectin formulations and their potent therapeutic applications, issues related to emergence of ivermectin resistance, and future trends of ivermectin usage. Keywords: ivermectin, ivermectin resistance, pharmacokinetic modulation, therapeutic applications.

Seven spot ladybird beetle, (Coccinella septempunctata) is a widely distributed natural enemy of soft-bodied insect pests especially aphids worldwide. Both the adult and larvae of this coccinellid beetle are voracious feeders and serve as a commercially available biological control agent around the globe. Different techniques are adopted to enhance the mass rearing and storage of this natural enemy by taking advantage of its natural ability to withstand under extremely low temperatures and entering diapause under unfavorable low temperature conditions. The key objective of this study was to develop a cost effective technique for enhancing the storage life and predatory potential of the larvae of C. septempunctata through cold storage in conjunction with the use of nuclear techniques, gamma radiations. Results showed that the host eating potential of larvae was enhanced as the cold storage duration was increased. Gamma irradiation further enhanced the feeding potential of larvae that were kept under cold storage. Different irradiation doses also affected the development time of C. septempuntata larvae significantly. Without cold storage, the lower radiation doses (10 and 25 GY) prolonged the developmental time as compared to un-irradiated larvae. Furthermore, the higher dose of radiation (50GY) increased the developmental time after removal from cold storage. This study first time paves the way to use radiation in conjunction with cold storage as an effective technique in implementation of different biological control approaches as a part of any IPM programs.Key wordGamma irradiations; cold storage, Coccinella septempunctata larvae; predatory potential; integrated pest management programme.INTRODUCTIONNuclear techniques such as gamma radiations have a vast application in different programmes of biological control including continuous supply of sterilized host and improved rearing techniques (Greany and Carpenter, 2000; Cai et al., 2017). Similarly irradiation can be used for sentinel-host eggs and larvae for monitoring survival and distribution of parasitoids (Jordão-paranhos et al., 2003; Hendrichs et al., 2009; Tunçbilek et al., 2009; Zapater et al., 2009; Van Lenteren, 2012). Also, at the production level, such technique may facilitate the management of host rearing, improve quality and expedite transport of product (Fatima et al., 2009; Hamed et al., 2009; Wang et al., 2009). Gamma irradiations can also be used to stop insect’s development to enhance host suitability for their use in different mass rearing programs (Celmer-Warda, 2004; Hendrichs et al., 2009; Seth et al., 2009). Development and survival of all insects have a direct connection with temperatures which in turn affect the physical, functional and behavioral adaptations (Ramløy, 2000). Many insects living in moderate regions can survive at low temperature by process of diapause. A temperature between 0 to 10oC may cause some insects to become sluggish and they only become active when the temperature is suitable. Such insects show greater adaptations to flexible temperature regimes for better survival. Many studies have reported this concept of cold-hardiness in insects in general (Bale, 2002; Danks, 2006) and specifically in coccinellid beetles over past years (Watanabe, 2002; Koch et al., 2004; Pervez and Omkar, 2006; Labrie et al., 2008; Berkvens et al., 2010). Using this cold hardiness phenomenon, many coccinellids have been studied for the effect of cold storage such as Coccinella undecimpunctata (Abdel‐Salam and Abdel‐Baky, 2000), Coleomegilla maculata (Gagné and Coderre, 2001) and Harmonia axyridis (Watanabe, 2002). This natural phenomenon, therefore, can be a helpful tool in developing low temperature stockpiling for improving mass-rearing procedures (Mousapour et al., 2014). It may provide a significant output in terms of providing natural enemies as and when required during pest infestation peaks (Venkatesan et al., 2000). Use of irradiation in conjunction with cold storage proves to be an effective technique in implementation of different biological control approaches as a part of any IPM programme. A study reported that the pupate of house fly, Musca domestica irradiated at dose of 500 Gy and can stored up to 2 months at 6°C for future use for a parasitoid wasp Spalangia endius rearing (Zapater et al., 2009). Similarly, when irradiated at 20 GY, parasitic wasps Cotesia flavipes were stored safely up to two months without deterioration of their parasitic potential (Fatima et al., 2009). Similarly, bio-control program of sugarcane shoot borer Chilo infescatellus proved successful through the use of irradiation combined with cold storage of its egg and larval parasitoids Trichogramma chilonis and C. flavipes (Fatima et al., 2009). Less mobile life stages such as larvae are of significance in any IPM strategy because they remain on target site for more time period as compared to adults. Therefore, use of predatory larvae is very promising in different biological control approaches because of their immediate attack on pests and more resistance to unfavorable environmental conditions than delicate egg stage. In addition, with their augmentation into fields, larval stage shows their presence for longer time than adult stage and their feeding potential is also satisfactory as that of adults. For the best utilization of these predators in the field and maximum impact of 3rd and 4th larval instars on prey, we should encourage late 2nd second instar larvae of predatory beetles in the fields as these instars have more feeding capacity due to increased size and ability to handle larger preys.In spite of higher significance, there is little information available about the effect of cold storage on the survival of larval instars of different ladybird beetles and its effect on their predatory potential. Very few studies report the use of cold storage for non-diapausing larval stage like for Semiadalia undecimnotata and only one study reported the short-term storage (up to two weeks) of 2nd and 3rd instar coccinellid, C. maculate, without any loss in feeding voracity of larvae after storage (Gagné and Coderre, 2001). The survival of 3rd and 4th larval instars of C. undecimpunctata for 7 days after storage at 5oC was reported in a study but the survival rate declined after 15-60 days of storage (Abdel‐Salam and Abdel‐Baky, 2000). As C. septempunctata is considered one of the voracious predators (Afroz, 2001; Jandial and Malik, 2006; Bilashini and Singh, 2009; Xia et al., 2018) and diapause is a prominent feature of this beetle and it may undergo facultative diapause under suitable laboratory conditions (Suleman, 2015). No information is available to date about the combined effect of cold storage and irradiation on the larval instars of this species.OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to devise a cost effective technique for the cold storage and its effect on the subsequent predatory potential of the seven spotted ladybird beetle larvae in conjunction with the use of gamma radiations. Hypothesis of the study was that an optimum length of low temperature treatment for storage purpose would not affect the predation capacity of C. septempunctata larvae and their developmental parameters including survival and pupation will remain unaffected. Furthermore, use of gamma irradiation will have some additional effects on survival and feeding capacity of irradiated C. septempunctata larvae. Such techniques can be utilized in different biocontrol programs where short term storage is required. So these larvae can be successfully imparted in different IPM programs against sucking complex of insect pests as a component of biological control strategyMATERIALS AND METHODSPlant materials: Collection and rearing of C. septempunctata: Adult C. septempunctata were collected from the wheat crop (in NIAB vicinity and farm area) in the month of March during late winter and early in spring season 2016-2017. They were kept in plastic jars and were fed with brassica aphids. Under controlled laboratory conditions (25+2oC, 16h: 8h L:D and 65+5% R.H.), eggs of C. septempuctata were obtained and after hatching, larvae were also given brassica aphids as dietary source. Larvae of second instar were selected for this experiment (as the first instar is generally very weak and vulnerable to mortality under low temperatures). As the larvae approached second instar, they were separated for the experimentation. Irradiation of larvae at different doses: Irradiation of larvae was carried out by the irradiation source 137CS at Radiation laboratory, and the larvae were then brought back to the IPM laboratory, Plant Protection Division, Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology (NIAB) Faisalabad. Radiation doses of 10 GY (Grey), 25 GY and 50 GY were used to treat the second instar larvae. There were three replicates for each treatment and five larvae per replicate were used. Control treatment was left un-irradiated.Cold storage of irradiated larvae: In present work, second instar C. septempunctata larvae were studied for storage at low temperature of 8oC. The larvae were kept at 8oC for 0, I and II weeks where week 0 depicts no cold treatment and this set of larvae was left under laboratory conditions for feeding and to complete their development. For larvae that were kept under cold storage for one week at 8°C, the term week I was devised. Similarly, week II denotes the larvae that remained under cold conditions (8°C) for two continuous weeks. Larvae were removed from cold storage in their respective week i.e., after week I and week II and were left under laboratory conditions to complete their development by feeding on aphids. Data collection: For recording the predatory potential of C. septempunctata larvae, 100 aphids were provided per larva per replicate on a daily basis until pupation as this number was more than their feeding capacity to make sure that they were not starved (personal observation). Observations were recorded for survival rate, developmental time and feeding potential. Data analysis: Data were statistically analysed by Statistical Software SPSS (Version 16.0). The data were subjected to normality check through the One-sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Non normal data were transformed to normal data which were then used for all parametric variance tests. One-way and two-way analyses of variance were used. For comparison between variables, LSD test at α 0.05 was applied.RESULTSFeeding potential of irradiated larvae after removal from cold storage: Results showed an increase in the feeding potential of C. septempunctata larvae with increased cold storage duration. The feeding potential was significantly higher for the larvae that spent maximum length of time (week II) under cold storage conditions followed by week I and week 0. Gamma irradiations further enhanced the feeding potential of larvae that were kept under cold storage. When larvae were irradiated at 10 GY, the eating capacity of larvae increased significantly with the duration of cold storage. Similarly, larvae that were irradiated at 25 GY, showed increase in feeding potential on aphids as the time period of cold storage increased. The feeding potential of larvae that were irradiated at 50 GY, was again significantly increased with increase of cold storage duration. When different radiation doses were compared to week 0 of storage, there was a significant difference in feeding potential and larvae irradiated at 50 GY consumed the maximum numbers of aphids when no cold storage was done followed by larvae irradiated at 10 and 25 GY. With the other treatment, where larvae were kept under cold storage for one week (week I) the larvae irradiated at 50GY again showed the highest feeding potential. The feeding potential of irradiated larvae was again significantly higher than the un-irradiated larvae that were kept for two weeks (week II) under cold storage (table 1).Two-way ANOVA was performed to check the interaction between the different radiation doses and different lengths of storage durations for feeding potential of C. septempunctata larvae on aphids. The feeding potential of larvae irradiated at different doses and subjected to variable durations of cold storage were significantly different for both the radiation doses and cold storage intervals. Furthermore, the interaction between the radiation doses and storage duration was also significant meaning that the larvae irradiated at different doses with different length of cold storage were having significant variations in feeding levels (table 2).Developmental time of irradiated larvae after removal from cold storage: Significant difference was found in the development time of the larvae of C. septempunctata when irradiated at different doses at week 0 (without cold storage). The larvae irradiated at 10 GY took the maximum time for development and with the increase in irradiation dosage, from 25 to 50 GY, the time of development was shortened. The larvae irradiated at 50 GY had the same development time as the un-irradiated ones. When, the irradiated larvae were subjected to cold storage of one week duration (week I), their development time after removal from storage condition varied significantly. The larvae irradiated at 25 GY took the maximum time for development followed by larvae irradiated at 50 GY and 10 GY. There was an indication that the development time was extended for irradiated larvae as compared to un-irradiated larvae.Results also depicted a significant difference in the time taken by irradiated larvae to complete their development after taken out from cold storage of two weeks duration (week II). As the storage time of irradiated larvae increased, the development time was prolonged. Results showed that the larvae that were irradiated at 25 and 50 GY, took the maximum time to complete their development. With the prolonged duration of cold storage up to two weeks (week II), this difference of development time was less evident at lower doses (10 GY). The larvae irradiated at 10 GY showed a significant difference in their developmental duration after being taken out of cold storage conditions of the week 0, I and II. There was no difference in the developmental duration of larvae that were un-irradiated and subjected to different regimes of storage. Un-irradiated larvae were least affected by the duration of storage. With the increase in the storage time, a decrease in the developmental time was recorded. Larvae that were irradiated at 10 GY, took the maximum period to complete their development when no cold storage was done (week 0) followed by week I and II of cold storage. When the larvae irradiated at 25 GY were compared for their development time, there was again significant difference for week 0, I and II of storage duration. Maximum time was taken by the larvae for their complete development when removed from cold storage after one week (week I). With the increase in storage duration the time taken by larvae to complete their development after removal from cold storage reduced.When the larvae were removed after different lengths of cold storage duration i.e., week 0, week I and week II, there was a significant difference in the developmental time afterwards. Results have shown that the higher dose of radiation, increased the developmental time after removal from cold storage. The larvae irradiated at 50 GY took the longest time to complete their development after removal from cold storage (week I and week II) as compared the larvae that were not kept under cold storage conditions (week 0) (table 3).Interaction between the different radiation doses and different lengths of storage durations for development time of larvae were checked by two-way ANOVA. The development time of larvae irradiated at different doses and subjected to variable durations of cold storage were significantly different for both the doses and cold storage intervals. Furthermore, the interaction between the radiation doses and storage duration was also significant meaning that the larvae irradiated at different doses with different length of cold storage were having significant variations in development times (table 4). DISCUSSIONThe present research work indicates the possibility of keeping the larval instars of C. septempunctata under cold storage conditions of 8oC for a short duration of around 14 days without affecting its further development and feeding potential. Furthermore, irradiation can enhance the feeding potential and increase the development time of larval instars. This in turn could be a useful technique in mass rearing and field release programmes for biological control through larval instars. Usually temperature range of 8-10oC is an optimal selection of low temperature for storage as reported earlier for eggs two spotted ladybird beetle, Adalia bipunctata and the eggs of C. septempunctata (Hamalainen and Markkula, 1977), Trichogramma species (Jalali and Singh, 1992) and fairyfly, Gonatocerus ashmeadi (Hymenoptra; Mymaridae) (Leopold and Chen, 2007). However, a study reported more than 80% survival rate for the coccinellid beetle, Harmonia axyridis for up to 150 days at moderately low temperature of 3-6oC (Ruan et al., 2012). So there is great flexibility in coccinellid adults and larvae for tolerating low temperature conditions. After removal from cold storage, larvae showed better feeding potential with consumption of more aphids when compared to normal larvae that were not placed under low temperature conditions. This indicates that when the adult or immature insect stages are subjected to low temperature environment, they tend to reduce their metabolic activity for keeping them alive on the reserves of their body fats and sustain themselves for a substantial length of time under such cold environment. Hereafter, the larval instars that were in cold storage were behaving as if starved for a certain length of time and showed more hunger. This behavior of improved or higher feeding potential of stored larvae has been reported previously (Chapman, 1998). Hence, the feeding potential of C. septempunctata larvae significantly increased after cold storage. Gagné and Coderre (2001) reported higher predatory efficacy in larvae of C. maculata when stored at the same temperature as in the present study i.e., 8oC. Similarly, Ruan et al. (2012) showed that the multicolored Asian ladybug, H. axyridis, when stored under cold conditions, had more eating capacity towards aphids Aphis craccivora Koch than the individuals that were not stored. Such studies indicate that the higher feeding potential in insects after being subjected to low temperature environmental conditions could be due to the maintenance of their metabolism rate to a certain level while utilizing their energy reserves to the maximum extent (Watanabe, 2002).The individuals coming out from cold storage are therefore capable of consuming more pray as they were in a condition of starvation and they have to regain their energy loss through enhanced consumption. Furthermore, the starvation in C. septempunctata has previously been reported to affect their feeding potential (Suleman et al., 2017). In the present study, the larval development was delayed after returning to normal laboratory conditions. Cold storage affects the life cycle of many insects other than coccinellids. The cold storage of green bug aphid parasitoid, Lysiphlebus testaceipes Cresson (Hymenoptra; Braconidae) mummies increased the life cycle 3-4 times. Nevertheless, in current study the development process of stored larvae resumed quickly after taking them out and larvae completed their development up to adult stage. Similar kinds of results were reported for resumption of larval development after removal from cold storage conditions. Such studies only report satisfactory survival rates and development for a short duration of cold storage but as the length of storage is increased, it could become harmful to certain insects. Gagné and Coderre (2001) reported that cold storage for longer period (three weeks) proved fatal for almost 40% of larvae of C. maculata. Furthermore, in the same study, the feeding potential of C. maculata larvae was also affected beyond two weeks of cold storage due to the loss of mobility after a long storage period. Many studies have reported that longer durations of low temperature conditions can either damage the metabolic pathways of body cells or may increase the levels of toxins within the bodies of insects. Also, low temperature exposure for longer duration may cause specific interruptions in the insect body especially neuro-hormones responsible for insect development, which could be dangerous or even life threatening.Chen et al. (2004) also reported that the biological qualities of parasitized Bemisia tabaci pupae on population quality of Encarsia formosa were affected negatively with increase in cold storage duration. Similarly, the egg hatchability of green lacewing Chrysoperla carnea Stephen was lost completely beyond 18 days of cold storage (Sohail et al., 2019). However, in the present study the cold storage was done for maximum two weeks and it is to be regarded as a short term storage hence the survival rate was satisfactory. Longer periods of cold storage for larvae are not considered safe due to their vulnerable state as compared to adults which are hardier. Also 2nd instar larvae used in the present study for cold storage for being bigger in size and physical stronger than 1st instar. Abdel‐Salam and Abdel‐Baky (2000) reported that in C. undecimpunctata the cold storage of 3rd and 4th larval instars was higher and considered safer than early larval instars. The same study showed sharp decline in survival rate after two weeks and there was no survival beyond 30-60 days of cold storage. The present study showed that short term storage of the larvae of C. septempunctata could be done without any loss of their feeding potential or development so the quality of predator remained unaffected. Similar kind of work for many other insects had been reported previously where cold storage technique proved useful without deteriorating the fitness of stored insects. For example, the flight ability of reared codling moth Cydia pomonella Linnaeus remained unaffected after removal from cold storage (Matveev et al., 2017). Moreover, a sturdy reported that pupae of a parasitoid wasp Trichogramma nerudai (Hymenoptera; Trichogrammatidae) could be safely put in cold storage for above than 50 days (Tezze and Botto, 2004). Similarly, a technique of cold storage of non-diapausing eggs of black fly Simulium ornaturm Meigen was developed at 1oC. Another study reported safe storage of a predatory bug insidious flower bug Orius insidiosus for more than 10 days at 8°C (Bueno et al., 2014).In present study without cold storage, the lower doses of 10 and 25 GY prolonged the developmental time as compared to un-irradiated larvae and higher doses of irradiations in conjunction with cold storage again significantly prolonged the developmental time of larvae when returned to the laboratory conditions. Salem et al. (2014) also reported that Gamma irradiations significantly increased the duration of developmental stages (larvae and pupae) in cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel). In another study, where endoparasitic wasps Glyptapanteles liparidis were evaluated with irradiated and non-irradiated gypsy moth Lymantria dispar larvae for oviposition, it was found that non-irradiated larvae had a shorter time to reach the adult stage as compared to irradiated larvae (Novotny et al., 2003). Both for higher doses with cold storage and lower doses without cold storage extended the larval duration of C. septempunctata. In another study when the parasitoid wasp Habrobracon hebetor was irradiated at the dose of 10 GY, it resulted in prolonged longevity (Genchev et al., 2008). In the same study, when another parasitoid Ventruria canescens was irradiated at lower doses of 4GY and 3 GY, it resulted in increased emergence from the host larvae, while gamma irradiations at the dose of 1 GY and 2 GY significantly stimulated the rate of parasitism (Genchev et al., 2008). The current study also indicated higher rates of predation in the form of increased feeding potential of larvae as a result of irradiations at lower doses.CONCLUSIONThe outcome of the current study shows that storage of 2nd instar C. septempunctata at low temperature of 8oC for a short duration of about 14 days is completely safe and could have broader application in different biocontrol programs. Such flexibility in storage duration can also assist in different mass rearing techniques and commercial uses. The combination of gamma radiation with low temperature cold storage could be a useful tool in developing different biological pest management programs against sucking insect pests. Incidence of periodic occurrence of both the target insect pests with their predatory ladybird beetles in synchrony is an important aspect that could be further strengthened by cold storage techniques. Therefore, short or long term bulk cold storage of useful commercial biocontrol agents and then reactivating them at appropriate time of pest infestation is a simple but an advantageous method in mass rearing programs. Increased feeding capacity of stored larvae is another edge and hence such larvae may prove more beneficial as compared to unstored larvae. Both cold storage and improved feeding of the C. septempuctata larvae can be utilized for implementation of IPM for many sucking insect pests of various crops, fruits and vegetables. Due to some constraints this study could not be continued beyond two weeks but for future directions, higher doses and longer duration periods could further elaborate the understanding and better application of such useful techniques in future IPM programmes on a wider scale. Also, some other predatory coccinellid beetle species can be tested with similar doses and cold storage treatments to see how effective this technique is on other species as well.ACKNOWLEDGMENTS We acknowledge the Sugarcane Research and Development Board for providing a research grant (No. SRDB/P/4/16) to carry out this research work. 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Rodent pinworms, Spironucleus muris and Tritrichomonas muris are the endoparasites that should be monitored and excluded from laboratory animal colonies. Nevertheless, traditional diagnostic methods may not efficiently detect and accurately demonstrate the endoparasite infestation status. In this study, we developed a multiplex PCR assay targeting the rRNA genes to simultaneously detect and differentiate five endoparasites, including Syphacia obvelata, Syphacia muris, Aspiculuris tetraptera, Spironucleus muris, and T. muris, as well as a housekeeping gene in feces. The multiplex PCR could identify an equivalent infection of pinworm, Spironucleus muris and T. muris, with a detection limit of as few as 10 copies. Furthermore, dual infections with up to 100-fold differences and triple infections with 10-fold differences in parasite loads can also be detected. In comparison of traditional methods with the multiplex PCR assay, 76 rodents from 11 research colonies and 3 pet shops and additional 27 fecal samples from laboratory rodents were screened for the infestation status of the five endoparasites. The multiplex PCR had higher sensitivity (97.2–100%) and accuracy (99–100%) than those of the traditional antemortem (sensitivity: 83–100%; accuracy: 94–100%) and postmortem methods (sensitivity: 75–100%; accuracy: 92.1–100%). In addition, an early stage of S. obvelata contamination in a SPF laboratory animal colony was also successfully detected by this multiplex PCR assay. This Pinworm/Spironucleus/Tritrichomonas/Actin Multiplex PCR assay should be a powerful tool to screen endoparasite infestations in laboratory colonies without animal sacrifice.

AbstractUrbanisation and invasion of wildlife into urban areas as well as human leisure activities create diverse wildlife-domestic animal-human interfaces, increasing the risk of (zoonotic) parasite spillover from sylvatic to domestic and synanthropic cycles. This study investigated the endo- and ectoparasite fauna, emphasising on parasites of One Health Concern, of the most common predators in northern Germany between November 2013 and January 2016. Eighty red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), 18 stone martens (Martes foina) and nine raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) were available for the study. Overall, 79 (73.8%) of the examined predators (n=107) harboured at least one endoparasite. The most frequently detected endoparasites in red foxes were Toxocara canis (43.8% positive individuals), Capillaria spp. (36.3%), Alaria alata (25.0%), Echinococcus multilocularis (26.3%) and Uncinaria stenocephala (25.0%). Furthermore, Toxascaris leonina, Trichuris vulpis, Taenia ssp., Mesocestoides spp. and coccidian oocysts were observed. The endoparasite species richness in raccoon dogs was comparable to red foxes, while in stone martens, only Capillaria spp. were found. Muscle digestion for detection of Trichinella spp. and antigen testing for Giardia spp. did not show positive results. Ectoparasite analyses revealed infestations with ticks species of the genus Ixodes as well as Dermacentor reticulatus. Scabies mites were not present in digested skin samples, while Demodex spp. mites were observed by faecal flotation in one red fox. Furthermore, fleas (Archaeopsylla erinacei and Chaetopsylla globiceps) were observed in the fur of red foxes, while lice were not present in any predator species. However, infestation frequency with ectoparasites was with 19.2% generally low in available predator skins (n=99). Overall, the present study showed that predators in northern Germany serve as reservoirs for parasites of One Health concern, with four of the five most frequent endoparasites being zoonotic, highlighting the need of parasite surveillance in wildlife predators in order to implement measures avoiding spillovers to domestic animals and humans.

A prevalence study was conducted to observe both ecto-and endo-parasitic (gastrointestinal) infection throughout one year surveillance. The study was conducted from July 2014 to June 2015 through Parasitology Laboratory, BLRI, Savar, Dhaka. The study considered age of cattle, season and type of parasitic infestation. In the study area total number of cattle population was 2000 in which 500 fecal and 200 ectoparasitic samples was collected considering three respective seasons like rainy, summer and winter. The fecal samples were examined by direct smear method followed by McMaster counting techniques and examine under microscope. After collection of samples within 24 hours all sample were tested by preserving at 40C temperature. In clinical observation, the overall prevalence of endoparasitic (gastrointestinal) infection was 68% and ectoparasitic infection was 60%. Prevalence of endoparasite was more frequent in rainy season (52.65%) followed by summer (27.05%) and winter season (20.29%) whereas prevalence of ectoparasite was more frequent in summer (39%) followed by rainy (13.5%) and winter (7.5%) season. The parasitic prevalence load was low in winter season. In endoparasitic infection, the higher prevalence of Paramphistomum spp. (20%) was found in rainy season whereas Haemonchus spp. (14%) and Toxocara spp. (12%) were higher in summer. In cattle, prevalence of Paramphistomum spp. (25.14%) and Haemonchus spp. (18.58%) was higher in adult cattle (above 6 months), whereas prevalence of Toxocara spp. (36.67%) and Coccidial oocyst (23.33%) was higher in calf (under 6 month) than adult animal (above 6 months) of age. The overall prevalence of ectoparasite was 60% and tick infestation was highest (22.5%) followed by lice (17.5%), mange (12.5%) and maggot fly (7.5%). High humidity (above 70%) and temperature provoke high endo- and ecto-parasite infection in the environment and infect cattle as well as other livestock species. Bangladesh J. of Livestock Res. 21-25: 29-35, 2018

Abstract Background The parasitic fauna of beavers (Castor fiber and C. canadensis) has been well studied in many parts of their respective areas of distribution. In Scandinavia there have, however, been limited investigations conducted on the parasites of beavers in recent times. The present study is the first quantitative survey of parasites on beavers living in Sweden and elsewhere in Scandinavia. We investigated the parasitic fauna of the Eurasian beaver (C. fiber) in a North–South gradient in Sweden. The aim of the study was to investigate parasite distribution and prevalence in particular, related to average yearly air temperature and different age groups of beavers. A total of 30 beavers were sampled at eight localities, spanning a 720 km North–South gradient during the springs of 1997 and 1998. Results Five parasite taxa were identified. Four of these were present in all of the examined beavers, Stichorchis subtriquetrus (trematode), Travassosius rufus (nematode), Platypsyllus castoris (coleopteran), and Schizocarpus spp. (arachnid). A higher number of new infections of S. subtriquetrus, and more adults of T. rufus, were seen in beavers in southern Sweden where temperatures are higher. One-year old beavers had a higher infestation of S. subtriquetrus, but not of T. rufus, than older individuals. Conclusions The parasite fauna of Swedish beavers mirrored the impoverished parasite fauna of the original Norwegian population, and the high prevalence of parasites could be due to low major histocompatibility complex (MHC) polymorphism. Young beavers had a higher load of trematodes, probably depending on behavioural and ecological factors. Warmer temperatures in southern localities likely contributed to increased endoparasite loads.

This study aims to examine the pattern of mast cell distribution in the intestinal tract of skipjack fish (Katsuwono pelamis) infested with endoparasitic worms and prove the correlation between endoparasitic worms and mast cells which are always involved in hypersensitivity responses. The study was conducted in May to July 2018 at the Paotere Fish Auction Place and at the Animal Climatology Histology Laboratory of Hasanuddin University. A total of 30 skipjack fish originating from the Paotere TPI were used as research samples, the fish were then dissected to be taken inside the organs infested with endoparasitic worms and then fixed and made histopatalogis slide preparations with microtechnic procedures and hematoxylin-eosin staining to be observed under a microscope. The results showed that infestation of endoparasitic worms in the body of skipjack fish could grasp the active mast cells. Mast cells are distributed only to the gonads, gills and heart of skipjack fish (Katsuwonus pelamis).

ABSTRACT: Free-living wild animals can host a wide variety of endoparasites. When subjected to conditions of captivity, these animals can go through stressful situations and develop parasites. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify parasitic infection in wild mammals, birds, and reptiles kept at the “Universidade de Caxias do Sul” Zoo, in Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil. The population studied was based on 76 animals, divided into 50% (38/76) birds, 35.53% (27/76) mammals, and 14.47% (11/76) reptiles distributed in 33 different enclosures. Fecal samples were collected from the enclosures and analyzed in triplicate, using the centrifugal-flotation method with a zinc sulfate solution. Samples from the enclosures 31, 32, 33, (where snakes are located), and 15 (animal death), were not analyzed in triplicate, so the total number of analyses was 91 samples. The results showed that 41.76% (38/91) of the samples were positive for at least one class of endoparasites, such as Nematoda, Cestoda, or Coccidia. The positive samples showed the presence of at least one or more parasites from orders Strongylida (34.21%), Enoplida and Strongylida (23.68%), Enoplida only (23.68%), Cyclophyllidea and Oxyurida (5.26%), Ascaridida only (5.26%), Enoplida, Strongylida, and Ascaridida (5.26%), and Enoplida and Eucoccidiorida (2.63%). Considering the positive samples, 55.26% were collected from birds, 39.47% from mammals, and 5.27% from reptiles. Capillaria sp. eggs were the main structure found in birds, and eggs from the order Strongylida were the most found in samples from mammals. This study showed the order Strongylida as the most frequent parasite found in 63.16% of the total samples, established either in isolated or mixed infestations. Also, mammals and birds were those with a greater quantity of positive samples for endoparasites. Therefore, this study emphasizes the importance of carrying out research assessing the gastrointestinal parasitic fauna in wild animals, so one can determine the conditions under which these parasites become pathogenic to wild animals raised in captivity.

Abstract Parasite composition can be affected by physiological and ecological changes during host ontogeny. Intertidal fish do not travel long distances and live in the same area throughout their lifetimes, meaning that parasite communities can differ across geographic ranges. The objective of this study was to analyse the parasite communities of three fish species (Hypsoblennius sordidus, Helcogrammoides cunninghami and Scartichthys viridis) collected from the Chilean coast. The composition of parasite species was compared among host ontogenetic stages (larvae, juveniles and mature fish) and geographic areas. A total of 184 larval, 252 juveniles and 217 mature individuals were collected in the northern area (c. 24°S), and 186 larval, 192 juveniles and 112 mature individuals from the central area (c. 33°S). Ectoparasites were most prevalent in fish from the central area, whereas endoparasites were most prevalent in the northern area. The parasite species richness varied significantly between geographical areas for H. sordidus and H. cunninghami, but the parasite composition varied significantly between geographical areas for all fish species analysed. Therefore, the geographical area was the most important factor determining the parasite composition of intertidal fish species. The absence of endoparasites in fish larvae and the increased infestation in juvenile and mature fish may be explained by the shift in habitat from the water column to intertidal pools where prey abundance and availability are higher. On the other hand, hydrographic barriers affecting prey distributions may also offer an explanation as to the differences in parasite composition.

Abstract The giant African land snail, Lissachatina fulica is considered to be one of the world's worst invader species. This snail can provoke major economic and public health problems in urban areas, in particular as a potential vector of nematodes that infect both humans and animals. In this context, the present study investigated the extent of the infestation of this exotic snail in the urban neighborhoods of the city of Rio Branco, verified the presence of endoparasites in these snails, and evaluated the knowledge of local residents with regard to the presence of this invader species. For this, daytime surveys were conducted between August 2015 and June 2016. For the analysis of endoparasites, 44 live specimens were sent to the National Reference Laboratory for Schistosomiasis-Malacology (LRNEM) of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute (FIOCRUZ). The knowledge of local residents in the infested neighborhoods was investigated using questionnaires with direct, closed questions. The exotic invader species (L. fulica) was detected in 24 of the 36 neighborhoods visited. A total of 858 L. fulica specimens were collected, of which, 329 were alive and 527 were dead. The total length of the shell ranged from 0.7 to 14.2 cm, with a mean±standard deviation of 4.8±2.21 cm. The density of snails in the areas surveyed varied from 0.34 individuals/m2 to 3.54 individuals/m2, while the mean density within the whole study area was estimated to be 0.54 individuals/m2. Mature eggs were found in only 9 (2.7%) of the 329 specimens dissected. The endoparasitological analysis revealed the presence of rhabditiform larvae in 84% of the specimens examined, as well as the nematodes Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (22.7% of the specimens) and Strongyluris sp. (2.2%). A total of 39 local residents were interviewed, and while all were conscious of the presence of the mollusk, none knew its origin or the most adequate way of dealing with it. The results of the study indicate an ample infestation of the city of Rio Branco by L. fulica, and confirmed a complete lack of intervention on the part of the local authorities for the implementation of measures foe the control and management of this pest within the urban zone of Rio Branco.

The occurrence of endoparasitoses in domestic animals has been reported routinely in the medical clinic of small animals, where wandering and domiciled cats are considered important reservoirs, evidencing the role of felines in the contamination of the environment by the infective forms of these parasites. Many animals are asymptomatic, but those with high parasitic load evidence clinical signs such as inappetence, anorexia, vomiting and diarrhea. The present study aimed to identify the different parasites found in faecal samples of semi - domed felines; for this, 45 fecal samples of cats were collected, regardless of age, sex or race, from different households in the municipality of Maringá, PR, Brazil. The collected samples were submitted to coproparasitological tests by means of the Willis & Mollay flotation method, carried out in the Veterinary Parasitology laboratory of the Veterinary Clinic of Uningá, Centro Universitário Ingá (UNINGÁ) between April and May 2017 The results obtained confirmed infestation by Toxoplasma gondii (Nicolle & Manceaux, 1908), Cryptosporidium sp. (Tyzzer, 1907), Cystoisospora sp. (Frenkel,1977), Giardia sp. (Kunstler,1882), Strongyloides sp. (Bavay, 1876), Toxocara cati (Schrank, 1788), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (Zeder, 1800), Toxascaris leonina (Sprent,1959) and Dipylidium sp. (Leuckart, 1886). Therefore, the study emphasizes the periodic monitoring of coproparasitological examsin the clinical routine of small animal clinics in order to minimize enteric alterations and pharmacological resistance.