Transmission networks and ectoparasite mite burdens in Oecomys paricola (Rodentia: Cricetidae).

ABSTRACT: The host contact network structure results from the movement and behaviour of hosts (e.g. degree of sociability; vagility and greater or lesser fidelity of shelters), which can generate heterogeneity in the transmission of parasites and influence the parasitic burden of individual hosts. In the current study, we tested the hypothesis that the burdens of Gigantolaelaps oudemansi mites are related to the characteristics of the transmission networks of individuals of Oecomys paricola, a solitary rodent. The study was carried out in a savannah habitat in north-eastern Brazil. In the dry season, the rodent network presented sub-groups of rodent individuals interacting with each other, whereas in the wet season, no modules were formed in the network. Mite burden was positively related to the num

SUBMITTER: Fernandes FR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11010056 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature