EAR MITES, OTODECTES CYNOTIS, ON WILD FOXES (PSEUDALOPEX SPP.) IN CHILE

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Wildlife Ecology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Endangered fox populations in Chile are vulnerable to novel threats.
• Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are a common parasite, but their presence in distant, isolated fox populations is understudied.
• Understanding parasite distribution is crucial for conservation efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and characterize ear mite infections in endangered fox populations in Chile.
• To investigate the genetic diversity and distribution of Otodectes cynotis in these populations.
• To assess the potential impact of ear mites on the health of endemic foxes.

Main Methods:

• Field sampling of Darwin's foxes (Pseudalopex fulvipes) and Fuegian culpeos (Pseudalopex culpaeus lycoides).
• Molecular identification and genetic analysis of ear mite samples (Otodectes spp.).
• Clinical examination for signs of infestation and secondary infections.

Main Results:

• Otodectes cynotis was identified in high proportions of both Darwin's foxes (76%) and Fuegian culpeos (73%).
• Mites from Fuegian culpeos were molecularly identified as Otodectes spp., with genetic analysis revealing genotype I and a potential new allele for O. cynotis.
• No infections were found in introduced chilla foxes or domestic dogs sampled concurrently.
• Secondary infections by Morganella morganii and Geotrichum sp. were observed in one heavily infested Darwin's fox.

Conclusions:

• Otodectes cynotis is confirmed to be a widespread parasite, present in geographically distant endangered fox populations in Chile.
• The genetic analysis provides insights into the mite's diversity and potential origins.
• The high infestation rates suggest a significant impact on these vulnerable fox populations, warranting further investigation into health consequences and management strategies.