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Sarcocystis in wild ungulates in Alberta
Journal of Wildlife Diseases
|October 1, 1980
Summary
Sarcocystis parasite cysts were found in Alberta wild ungulates. Wapiti, moose, and bison showed the highest infection rates, indicating widespread Sarcocystis prevalence in these wild populations.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Wildlife Health
- Ecology
Background:
- Sarcocystis is an apicomplexan parasite with a global distribution.
- Wild ungulates serve as intermediate hosts for various Sarcocystis species.
- Understanding Sarcocystis prevalence is crucial for wildlife health management and interspecies disease transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Sarcocystis cysts in wild ungulates in Alberta.
- To assess Sarcocystis infection rates across seven different ungulate species.
Main Methods:
- Gross and histological examination of muscle samples from 557 wild ungulates.
- Species analyzed included wapiti, moose, bison, mule deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and white-tailed deer.
Main Results:
- High Sarcocystis prevalence observed: 100% in wapiti, 96% in moose, 94% in bison.
- Moderate to high prevalence in mule deer (75%), bighorn sheep (75%), and mountain goat (73%).
- Lower prevalence (49%) noted in white-tailed deer.
Conclusions:
- Sarcocystis infection is highly prevalent in several Alberta wild ungulate populations.
- Wapiti, moose, and bison appear to be particularly susceptible or exposed.
- Further research into host-parasite dynamics and potential impacts on wildlife health is warranted.