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Parasitic Infections in Stranded Whales and Dolphins in Canary Islands (2018-2022): An Update
Zuleima Suárez-González1, Jorge F González2, Manuel Arbelo1
1Division of Histology and Veterinary Pathology, Atlantic Center for Cetacean Research, University Institute for Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Transmontaña, Arucas, 35413 Canary Island, Spain.
Marine biodiversity in the Canary Islands is high. A study identified 18 parasite species in stranded cetaceans, crucial for understanding marine mammal health and conservation efforts.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Parasitology
- Veterinary Pathology
Background:
- The Canary Islands are recognized as a significant hub for marine biodiversity.
- Stranded cetaceans offer valuable insights into marine ecosystem health and disease.
- Parasitic infections can impact the health and population dynamics of marine mammals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To morphologically identify parasites affecting stranded cetaceans in the Canary Islands.
- To contribute to the understanding of marine mammal health and disease epidemiology.
- To inform conservation and management strategies for cetacean populations.
Main Methods:
- Necropsy was performed on 233 stranded cetaceans between 2018 and 2022.
- Parasites were morphologically identified to species or genus level.
- Data on host age and parasite prevalence were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Eighteen parasite species were identified, including nematodes, trematodes, cestodes, acanthocephalans, protists, and crustaceans.
- Adult and sub-adult/juvenile cetaceans exhibited the highest rates of parasitization.
- Variations in host specificity and prevalence were observed among the identified parasites.
Conclusions:
- Accurate morphological identification of parasites is vital for assessing cetacean health.
- This research provides essential data for disease epidemiology and conservation planning.
- Understanding parasite-host interactions aids in managing marine mammal populations in the Canary Islands.
