Survey of Ecto- and Gastrointestinal Parasites of Wild Cane Rats (Thryonomys swinderianus) in Ifedore Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria
Monday Chukwudi David
Parasitology and Public Health Unit, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B 704, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Titus Adeniyi Olusi
Parasitology and Public Health Unit, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B 704, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Iyabo Adepeju Simon-Oke
Parasitology and Public Health Unit, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B 704, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Olugbenga Samuel Babatunde *
Parasitology and Public Health Unit, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B 704, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Wild cane rats (Thryonomys swinderianus) are highly susceptible to infestations by ectoparasites and gastrointestinal parasites, posing significant zoonotic and veterinary health risks. This study investigates the prevalence and intensity of ectoparasites and gastrointestinal parasites in wild cane rats across six communities in Ifedore Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Methods: This study was conducted from May 2020 to March 2021. A total of 60 cane rats were examined using standard parasitological techniques to identify ectoparasites and gastrointestinal parasites. Ectoparasites were collected, preserved in 70% ethanol, and identified using a stereomicroscope and taxonomic keys. Gastrointestinal parasites were recovered through necropsy, with faecal egg counts performed using the sedimentation technique. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05.
Results: The study recorded a 100% prevalence of Ixodes ticks across all study sites, with the ears (70%) and back (24.55%) being the most common attachment sites. Gastrointestinal parasites were found in 86.7% of cane rats, with no significant variation across locations (P > 0.05). Males had a significantly higher gastrointestinal parasite burden (P = 0.04) compared to females. The identified gastrointestinal parasites were nematodes, including Ascaris sp., Trichuris sp., and Trichostrongylus spp., with Ascaris sp. being the most prevalent. The large intestine had the highest parasite intensity (63.3%), differing from previous findings where the small intestine was most affected.
Conclusion: This study highlights the widespread occurrence of ectoparasites and gastrointestinal parasites in wild cane rats, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and control measures. Given the potential zoonotic risks, strategies such as regular deworming, improved meat hygiene, and parasite surveillance are recommended to mitigate public health and veterinary concerns.
Keywords: Prevalence, ectoparasites, gastrointestinal, intensity, cane rats, predilection site