Temperature and Rainfall Associate With Patterns of Parasitism in Free-Ranging Capuchin Monkeys (Cebus imitator)

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Parasitology
• Primate Biology

Background:

• Ecological factors like climate and habitat influence parasite infections in animal hosts.
• Wild primate populations offer valuable insights into host-parasite dynamics.
• Understanding these relationships is crucial for conservation and disease management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of climate and habitat variables on gastrointestinal parasite infections in Costa Rican capuchin monkeys.
• To identify specific ecological drivers affecting parasite richness, density, and presence.
• To contribute novel data from a well-studied primate population.

Main Methods:

• Collected 200 fecal samples from five capuchin monkey groups over one year.
• Assessed home range size, forest productivity (NDVI), and forest cover using satellite imagery.
• Measured local climate data (rainfall, temperature) and analyzed parasite loads using Bayesian regression models.

Main Results:

• Rainfall and temperature significantly affected the presence and fecal density of certain parasites.
• Soil-transmitted helminth (Strongyloides) prevalence and egg shedding decreased in hotter and rainier months.
• Indirectly transmitted parasites were more prevalent during drier months, correlating with dietary shifts.

Conclusions:

• Climate variables are key determinants of gastrointestinal parasite infection patterns in capuchin monkeys.
• Observed patterns likely reflect climate-driven changes in host behavior, diet, and parasite ecology.
• Findings underscore the interconnectedness of climate, host ecology, and parasitism in wildlife.