Demodicosis in African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer caffer) in Botswana

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Parasitology
• Wildlife Health

Background:

• Demodex mites are common parasites causing skin issues in various mammals.
• African buffalo (Syncerus caffer caffer) can develop nodular skin disease.
• Eczematous lesions are observed in severely affected buffalo.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of Demodex cafferi infestation in African buffalo.
• To understand the pathological changes associated with Demodex cafferi in buffalo.
• To assess the potential for transmission of Demodex cafferi to cattle.

Main Methods:

• Field study involving 193 African buffalo.
• Prevalence assessment of Demodex cafferi infection.
• Histopathological examination of skin lesions and hair follicles.

Main Results:

• Average prevalence of Demodex cafferi was 28% in the studied buffalo population.
• Infection rates were highest in buffalo aged 1 to 3 years and showed no sex predilection.
• Granulomatous reactions and mite proliferation were observed within hair follicles and sebaceous glands.

Conclusions:

• Demodex cafferi is a significant cause of nodular skin disease and eczematous lesions in African buffalo.
• The mite's life cycle involves hair follicles and sebaceous glands, eliciting a host immune response.
• Transmission of Demodex cafferi from buffalo to cattle is unlikely, suggesting host specificity.