Species composition and seasonal dynamics of the helminth community parasitizing Didelphis albiventris (Marsupialia: didelphidae) in savannas of central Argentina

Authors

  • Graciela Teresa Navone Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y Vectores (CEPAVE), Calle 2, no584, 1900 Let Plata, Argentina
  • Delia Mabel Suriano Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, Pabellón 2, 1428 Buenos Aires, Argentina

Abstract

The taxonomic composition and the community structure of the parasites of 42 indivuals of Didelphis albiventris in Moreno District, Santiago del Estero Province, Argentina (Chaqueta Biogeographic Province) was studied. The prevalence, mean intensity, relative density and frequency values were determined between July 1988 and May 1989. The relationship between the parasite cycle and the diet of the host was inferred. The interaction among parasites in the intestine was evaluated. The results showed that: 1) the helminths parasitizing D. albiventris are nematodes (Turgida turgida, Pterygodermatites (Paucipectines) kozeki and Aspidodera raillieti), cestodes (Mathevotaenia sp.) and acanthocephalans (Hamanniella microcephala); 2) D. albiventris is highly parasitized all year round; 3) T. turgida is the central species (highest frequency); P.(P) kozeki and H. microcephala are the satellite species (least frequency) and Mathevotaenia sp. and A. raillieti are the secondary species (intermediate frequency); 4) H. microcephala is a generalist and P.(P) kozeki is a specialist. Nevertheless, H. microcephala is forced to the middle and posterior sections of the small intestine when P. (P) kozeki is present.

References

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Published

1992-12-01

How to Cite

Navone, G. T., & Suriano, D. M. (1992). Species composition and seasonal dynamics of the helminth community parasitizing Didelphis albiventris (Marsupialia: didelphidae) in savannas of central Argentina. Ecología Austral, 2(2), 095–100. Retrieved from https://ojs.ecologiaaustral.com.ar/index.php/Ecologia_Austral/article/view/1729

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 2 (1992)

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Articles

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