First confirmation of Microthoracius mazzai (Anoplura) infestation in Vicugna pacos (Camelidae) in Germany

This case report details the identification and management of an autochthonous infestation of Microthoracius mazzai, in a herd of alpacas located in southern Germany. Notably, this is the first documented occurrence of M. mazzai in Germany, presented with clinical signs of skin irritation and anemia, suggesting to consider M. mazzai as a differential diagnosis in dermatological diseases in alpacas in Germany. Moreover, in the course of this study we described the morphology of the projecting proboscis of M. mazzai by scanning electron microscopy for the first time.