Changes in biodiversity drive trypanosome infections of wildlife in Panama

Understanding how anthropogenic disturbances impact biodiversity and zoonotic disease transmission is critical for safeguarding human and animal health. In Panama, we studied the effects of these disturbances on wildlife populations and Trypanosoma cruzi infections, which cause Chagas disease in humans, at 23 different sites ranging from pristine forests to heavily altered monocultures. Our results indicate that human disturbance leads to increased trypanosome infection rates, primarily through two mechanisms: the proliferation of generalist marsupial host species, specifically Didelphis marsupialis and Philander opossum, which are key reservoirs for Trypanosoma cruzi, and a decline in the genetic diversity of the alternative rodent host Proechimys semispinosus. While species diversity did not affect infection probability in protected habitats, where natural processes support ecological resilience, higher diversity in disturbed, unprotected habitats was linked to a reduced risk of infection. These findings highlight the consequences of human impacts on wildlife diversity, including species assemblages and genetic diversity, and their potential role in disease ecology. We emphasize that conservation of pristine ecosystems and natural species communities is essential for mitigating zoonotic disease risks and preserving ecosystem health.