Abstract

Ectoparasites diversity was assessed on selected fauna species (Grasscutter Thryonomys swinderianus, Grey duiker Sylvicapra grimmia, and Pangolin Phataginus spp.), for their prevalence at dry season and rainy season, and to determine the animal species most suspectible to ectoparasite infestation. Isolated parasites from the fauna species were preserved in 70% ethanol until they were viewed under microscope for identification. All species of parasites were identified to genus level. Two species of ectoparasites (mites and ticks) were identified for all fauna species studied. A total of one hundered and thirty four (134) ticks were collected from the animals species and four (4) mites were identifed from the animals they infested. Twenty four (24) hosts belonging to the family Thryonomydae (14), Manidae (4) and Bovidae (6) were infested by ticks and mites during the study period (dry and wet season). The parasites were found at various parts of the body: ear, head region, tail and under the scale. Parasite mean intensity was higher for tick at both dry and wet seasons (8.55 and 1.5) respectively. On the basis of average number of parasites found on individual fauna species, Grasscutter appears most susceptible to infestation having a value of 4.78 which is significantly different from others at p < 0.05. Wet season favoured parasite infestation at a significant level. Further research is however needed to identify other types of parasite and possible impact on the under studied animal species and humans consuming these fauna species.    

Key Words: Wild fauna, Ectoparasites, Bushmeat, Season, Diversity

DOI: https://ejesm.org/doi/v11.10S