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Echinococcus species in wildlife
Thomas Romig1,2, Marion Wassermann1,2
1University of Hohenheim, Parasitology Unit, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany.
International Journal for Parasitology. Parasites and Wildlife
|February 26, 2024
Summary
Wildlife plays a key role in Echinococcus spp. transmission, especially for species like Echinococcus multilocularis. Recent studies reveal wild mammals are significant hosts, challenging previous assumptions about domestic transmission cycles.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Wildlife Epidemiology
- Molecular Ecology
Background:
- Echinococcus spp. transmission is complex, with wildlife-dominated cycles recognized for some species (e.g., Echinococcus multilocularis) and domestic cycles for others (e.g., Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato).
- Historically, wild ungulates infected with cystic echinococcosis were often considered incidental hosts due to spill-over from domestic transmission.
- Molecular advancements have enabled better discrimination of Echinococcus species and genotypes, but the precise role of wild mammals remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated overview of wild mammals as hosts for all Echinococcus species.
- To consolidate current knowledge on Echinococcus transmission dynamics involving wildlife.
- To highlight knowledge gaps and epidemiological impact of Echinococcus in wild host populations.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies published in the past two decades.
- Inclusion of records detailing wild ungulates infected with cystic echinococcois.
- Analysis of molecular data to identify Echinococcus species and genotypes in wild hosts.
Main Results:
- Identification of over 150 wild mammal species acting as hosts for various Echinococcus species.
- New insights into Echinococcus granulosus s.l. transmission in sub-Saharan African wildlife.
- Updated understanding of Echinococcus multilocularis transmission patterns in North America and other previously neglected regions.
Conclusions:
- Wild mammals are confirmed as significant hosts across diverse Echinococcus spp. life cycles, not just incidental.
- Current knowledge on Echinococcus transmission in wildlife is expanding, particularly in understudied regions.
- Further research is crucial to fully elucidate the epidemiological impact and transmission dynamics of Echinococcus in global wildlife populations.
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