Host and habitat shape ectoparasite diversity on <i>Mastomys natalensis</i> and <i>Mastomys coucha</i> (Muridae).

ABSTRACT: Mastomys natalensis and M. coucha are commensal rodent species endemic to Africa. A recent taxonomic revision within Mastomys leaves the parasite–host list of M. natalensis questionable and that of M. coucha incomplete. The current study aimed to develop a better understanding of the ectoparasite diversity associated with the 2 distinct but closely related rodent species and to explore the influence of host and habitat type on ectoparasite infestations. Between 2014 and 2020, 590 rodents were trapped in 3 habitat types (village, agriculture and natural) across a wildlife-human/domestic animal interface. In total 48 epifaunistic species (45 ectoparasitic and 3 predatory) represented by 29 genera from 4 taxonomic groups (fleas, lice, mites and ticks) were r

SUBMITTER: Little AJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11579041 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature