Asynchronous seasonal dynamics of nycteribiid bat flies and Bartonella spp. in Australian flying foxes (Pteropus spp.).

ABSTRACT:

Background

Bat flies are ubiquitous ectoparasites of bats, recognised as potential vectors for viral and bacterial transmission between individual bats within a roost. Despite this, little is known about the seasonal dynamics of bat flies. Here, we present the results of a longitudinal study that compares seasonal prevalence and host risk factors for bat fly (Diptera: Nycteribiidae) parasitism with that of Bartonella and Borrelia spp. detected in Pteropus alecto and P. poliocephalus in eastern Australia.

Methods

Flying foxes were sampled at nine different roosts in south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales between February 2018 and September 2022 using mist nets. Host and ectoparasite data were recorded, and bat fly specimens were collected for identification. Blood

SUBMITTER: Jones BD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12924405 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature