Abstract Introduction: Macrobrachium amazonicum is widely distributed in South America, occurring in the Orinoco, Amazon and Paraguay river basins, being used as an important source of protein for feeding riverside populations. This prawn is host to the crustacean ectoparasites Probopyrus pandalicola, Probopyrus floridensis and Probopyrus bithynis (Bopyridae) that infest the gill cavity of the species. Objective: To report the prevalence and abundance of ectopasites (P. pandalicola, P. floridensis and P. bithynis) and the condition factor in M. amazonicum from the Amazon River, Eastern Amazon. Methods: The prawns were collected from May 2017 to April 2018, with the artisanal trap matapi in the municipalities of Mazagão (state of Amapá) and Santarém (state of Pará), Brazil. Results: 216 prawns infected with ectoparasites were captured, 133 in the Mazagão region (53 P. pandalicola, 48 P. bithynis and 32 P. floridensis) and 83 in the Santarém region (45 P. pandalicola and 38 P. bithynis). In Mazagão, the highest prevalence values were recorded in May (1.98 %) for P. floridensis, July (2.18 %) for P. bithynis, and March (1.93 %) for P. pandalicola. In the Santarém region, the highest prevalence values were recorded in February, 3.47 for P. pandalicola and 2.89 for P. bithynis. Regarding the abundance of parasites, there was no difference between the species grouped between the regions (t = 0.32, p = 0.739). Parasitized prawns from Mazagão and Santarém presented condition factors below expectations, with an average of 0.85 ± 0.55 for Santarém and 0.88 ± 0.44 for Mazagão. Conclusions: During the study it was found that P. pandalicola, P. bithynis and P. floridensis were present in M. amazonicum throughout the year. Furthermore, there was an effect of parasitism on M. amazonicum in the study areas.

Resumen Introducción: Macrobrachium amazonicum está ampliamente distribuido en América del Sur, se encuentra en las cuencas de los ríos Orinoco, Amazonas y Paraguay, se utiliza como una fuente importante de proteínas para alimentar a las poblaciones ribereñas. Este camarón es hospedero de los ectoparásitos crustáceos: Probopyrus pandalicola, Probopyrus floridensis y Probopyrus bithynis (Bopyridae), que infestan la cavidad branquial de la especie. Objetivo: Reportar la prevalencia y abundancia de ectoparásitos (P. pandalicola, P. floridensis y P. bithynis) y el factor de condición de M. amazonicum en el| río Amazonas, al este de la Amazonía. Métodos: Los camarones fueron recolectados entre mayo 2017 y abril 2018, con la ayuda de matapis (trampa artesanal) en los municipios de Mazagão (Estado de Amapá) y Santarém (Estado de Pará), Brasil. Resultados: Se capturaron un total de 216 camarones parasitados con ectoparásitos, 133 de ellos en la región de Mazagão (53 P. pandalicola, 48 P. bithynis y 32 P. floridensis) y 83 en la región de Santarém (45 P. pandalicola y 38 P. bithynis). En Mazagão, los valores más altos de prevalencia se registraron en mayo (1.98 %) para P. floridensis, julio (2.18 %) para P. bithynis y marzo (1.93 %) para P. pandalicola. En la región de Santarém, los valores más altos de prevalencia se registraron en febrero, de 3.47 para P. pandalicola y 2.89 para P. bithynis. En cuanto a la abundancia de parásitos, no hubo diferencia entre las especies agrupadas entre las regiones (t = 0.32, p = 0.739). Los camarones parasitados de Mazagão y Santarém mostraron factores de condición por debajo de lo esperado, con un promedio de 0.85 ± 0.55 para Santarém y 0.88 ± 0.44 para Mazagão. Conclusiones: Durante el estudio, se encontró que P. pandalicola, P. bithynis y P. floridensis estuvieron presentes en M. Amazonicum todo el año. Además, hubo un efecto de parasitismo sobre M. Amazonicum en las áreas de estudio.

Abstract Background: Invasive parasitic species have barely been studied despite their impact on the communities they invade. Questions: What is the host range used by the invasive parasite Cassytha filiformis in the coastal scrubland of northern Yucatan? Does C. filiformis show host preference? Does the physiological performance of C. fliformis (water deficit and chlorophyll content) vary among hosts on which it establishes and reproduces? Study species: Cassytha filiformis, an invasive hemiparasitic vine of coastal communities. Study sites and dates: Telchac, Yucatán, México. The study lasted from October 2022 to June 2023. Methods: The incidence of C. filiformis parasitism was recorded. Histological analysis confirmed parasitism, and the water potential and chlorophyll concentration of C. filiformis in its main hosts were determined. Results: C. filiformis parasitized 10 species, showing a preference for shrubs. Its main hosts were Scaevola plumieri, Phitecellobium keyense and Croton punctatus. Differences between hosts were observed in water potential variation and total chlorophyll concentration. Differences between stem types (young and mature) in chlorophyll concentration were also observed. Conclusions: C. filiformis prefers shrub species to establish. The physiological performance of C. filiformis varied depending on host identity. Differences in chlorophyll concentration between stem types of C. filiformis suggest functional physiological differences between them.

Resumen Antecedentes: Las especies parásitas invasoras han sido pobremente estudiadas a pesar del impacto que pueden tener en las comunidades que invaden. Preguntas: ¿Cuál es el rango de hospederos que utiliza la parásita invasora Cassytha filiformis? ¿C. filiformis presenta preferencia por hospederos? ¿el desempeño fisiológico (déficit hídrico y contenido de clorofilas) de C. filiformis varía entre los hospederos donde se establece y reproduce? Especie de estudio: Cassytha filiformis, liana hemiparásita invasora de comunidades costeras. Sitio y años de estudio: Telchac, Yucatán México. El estudio abarcó de octubre del 2022 a junio 2023. Métodos: Se registró la incidencia de parasitismo de C. filiformis. Se confirmó el parasitismo mediante análisis histológico y se determinó el potencial hídrico y la concentración de clorofila de C. filiformis en sus principales hospederos. Resultados: C. filiformis parasitó 10 especies mostrando preferencia por especies arbustivas. Sus principales hospederos fueron Scaevola plumieri, Phitecellobium keyense y Croton punctatus. Se observaron diferencias entre hospederos en el cambio del potencial hídrico y la concentración total de clorofila. Adicionalmente, se observaron diferencias entre tipos de tallos (jóvenes y maduros) en la concentración de clorofila. Conclusiones: C. filiformis se establece en especies arbustivas. Su desempeño fisiológico varía dependiendo de la identidad del hospedero. Se observaron diferencias en la concentración de clorofila entre tipos de tallo de C. filiformis sugiriendo diferencias fisiológicas funcionales entre ellos.

RESUMEN Se determinó la presencia de parásitos gastrointestinales (PGI) en ovinos de carne provenientes de predios de la precordillera de la comuna de San Clemente Chile mediante un muestreo por conveniencia (n=100) entre agosto y noviembre de 2022. Se colectaron muestras fecales del recto y se procesaron mediante la técnica de sedimentación de Dennis modificada para la determinación de huevos de F. hepatica y la técnica de flotación de Sheather para determinación de huevos de nemátodos y coccidias. Además, se realizó la técnica cuantitativa de McMaster modificado en las muestras. Se encontró mayor prevalencia de parásitos de la familia Trichostrongylidae (68%), seguido de F. hepatica (47%), Nematodirus sp (25%) y Eimeria sp (43%). Además, se evaluaron las variables epidemiológicas edad, sexo y estado sanitario. El grupo etario fue significativo (p=0.003) para la variable edad en Trichostrongylidae, y el tipo de manejo sanitario afectó la prevalencia de Eimeria (p=0.020); Trichostrongylidae (p=0.001); Nematodirus sp (p=0.04) y Fasciola hepatica (p=0.020). Se detectaron cargas parasitarias moderadas en todos los casos. Asimismo, se detectaron casos de biparasitisimo (26%) y multi-parasitismo (32%).

ABSTRACT The presence of gastrointestinal parasites (PGI) was determined in meat sheep from farms in the foothills of the commune of San Clemente Chile through convenience sampling (n=100) between August and November 2022. Faecal samples were collected from the rectum. and were processed using the modified Dennis sedimentation technique for the determination of F. hepatica eggs and the Sheather flotation technique for the determination of nematode and coccidia eggs. In addition, the modified McMaster quantitative technique was performed on the samples. A higher prevalence of parasites from the Trichostrongylidae family (68%) was found, followed by F. hepatica (47%), Nematodirus sp (25%) and Eimeria sp (43%). In addition, the epidemiological variables age, sex and health status were evaluated. The age group was significant (p=0.003) for the age variable in Trichostrongylidae, and the type of health management affected the prevalence of Eimeria (p=0.020); Trichostrongylidae (p=0.001); Nematodirus sp (p=0.04) and F. hepatica (p=0.020). Moderate parasite loads were detected in all cases. Likewise, cases of biparasitism (26%) and multi-parasitism (32%) were detected.

Abstract Alliaceae crops includes several species of agricultural importance for the Arequipa region, among them the onion is the most produced in the country, however, these crops are affected by phytoparasitic nematodes, including Meloidogyne spp. which causes significant losses in the yield. The aim of the present study was to characterise the root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp) and determine the population density of phytoparasitic nematodes in alliaceae crops in the main producing localities of the Arequipa region. Samples of roots and soil were collected in onion, chinese onion, leek and chives crops in the provinces of Arequipa, Castilla, Caylloma and Islay. The identification of nematode genus was found by morphological characteristics and the characterization of Meloidogyne were performed by perineal patterns and electrophoretic pattern of esterase (Est). In the 38 soil samples, different genus of plant-parasitic nematodes was found: Aphelenchus, Dorylaimus, Helicotylenchus, Hemicycliophora, Meloidogyne, Mesocriconema, Mononchus, OGMA, Pratylenchus, Rotylenchus, Tylenchus, Xiphinema and free-living nematodes, in root samples, eight populations of Meloidogyne spp. were found. distributed among three species: (1) M. incognita phenotype Est I1, Rm: 1.0 with 33.33% of frequency and Est I2, Rm: 1.03, 1.07 (50%); (2) M. javanica Est J3, Rm: 1.03, 1.24, 1.37 (16.67%) and an atypical species named Meloidogyne sp. Rm: 0.85 (33.33%). The identification of genus and species phytoparasitic nematodes in alliaceae will allow the adoption of more efficient integrated management measures, because have a distinct parasitism behavior.

Resumen Cultivo de aliáceas comprenden diversas especies de importancia agrícola para la región Arequipa, entre ellas la cebolla es la de mayor producción en el país, sin embargo, estos cultivos son afectados por nematodos fitoparásitos entre ellas Meloidogyne spp. que ocasiona pérdidas significativas en la producción. El objetivo del presente estudio fue caracterizar al nematodo de las agallas (Meloidogyne spp) y determinar la densidad poblacional de nematodos fitoparásitos en cultivos de aliáceas en las principales localidades productoras de la región Arequipa, se colectaron muestras de raíces y suelo de cultivos de cebolla, cebolla china, poro y cebollín en las provincias de Arequipa, Castilla, Caylloma e Islay. La identificación de los géneros de nematodos se hizo mediante características morfológicas y la caracterización de Meloidogyne se hizo mediante patrones perineales y por padrón electroforético de esterasa (Est). En las 38 muestras de suelo se encontraron doce géneros de nematodos fitoparásitos: Aphelenchus, Dorylaimus, Helicotylenchus, Hemicycliophora, Meloidogyne, Mesocriconema, Mononchus, OGMA, Pratylenchus, Rotylenchus, Tylenchus, Xiphinema y nematodos de vida libre, en muestras de raíces, se encontraron ocho poblaciones de Meloidogyne spp. distribuidas en tres especies: (1) M. incognita fenotipo Est I1, Rm: 1.0 con 33,33% de frecuencia y Est I2, Rm: 1.03, 1.07 (50%); (2) M. javanica Est J3, Rm: 1.03, 1.24, 1.37 (16,67%) y una especie atípica denominada Meloidogyne sp. Rm: 0.85 (33,33%). La identificación de géneros y especies de nematodos fitoparásitos en aliáceas, permitirá adoptar medidas de manejo integrado más eficientes, debido a que poseen un comportamiento de parasitismo distinto.

Abstract Introduction: The endoparasite Dendrogaster argentinensis infects the intertidal brooder sea star Anasterias antarctica. This sea-star species is in the highest trophic level in the Beagle Channel. Objective: To study the effects of parasitism by D. argentinensis on the fitness and reproduction of A. antarctica. Methods: Adults from the brooder sea-star were collected from the rocky intertidal of Ensenada Zaratiegui bay (54°51’ S & 68°29’ W), Argentina. Eight seasonal samplings were performed (four seasons in two years) in the upper and low intertidal. During dissection, parasites were removed, and all organs were extracted and weighed separately. Results: Dendrogaster argentinensis prevalence was the highest for the region (20.4 %). Parasitized individuals were more frequent in the low intertidal in all seasons, with a higher difference in summer, where it is likely that the higher temperatures and strong winds could make the upper intertidal more challenging for a parasitized individual. Five parasitized individuals were castrated. Generally, the gonadal (GI) and somatic (pyloric caeca, PCI; stomach, SI; body wall, WI) indexes were lower in parasitized than non-parasitized individuals. Conclusions: Parasitism by D. argentinensis negatively affects A. antarctica condition. It affects reproduction because it reduces the GI, and can also produce castration. The parasite competes for the sea-stars’ energetic resources, also decreasing the individual’s capacity for feeding (reduced stomach) and growth (reduced body wall).

Resumen Introducción: El endoparásito Dendrogaster argentinensis infecta a la estrella de mar Anasterias antarctica, especie que se encuentra en el nivel trófico más alto del Canal Beagle. Objetivo: Estudiar los efectos del parasitismo de D. argentinensis en la condición fisiológica y reproducción de A. antarctica. Métodos: Adultos de la estrella de mar incubadora fueron recogidos del intermareal rocoso de la bahía Ensenada Zaratiegui (54°51’ S & 68°29’ W). Se realizaron ocho muestreos estacionales (cuatro temporadas en dos años) en el intermareal superior y bajo. Durante la disección, se removieron los parásitos, y todos los órganos, los cuales fueron pesados por separado. Resultados: La prevalencia de D. argentinensis fue la más alta de la región (20.4 %). Los individuos parasitados fueron más frecuentes en el intermareal bajo en todas las estaciones, siendo la mayor diferencia en verano, donde es probable que las temperaturas más altas y los fuertes vientos puedan hacer que el intermareal superior sea más desafiante para un individuo parasitado. Se observaron cinco individuos parasitados que estaban castrados. Generalmente, los índices gonadales (GI) y somáticos (ciego pilórico, estómago, y pared del cuerpo) fueron menores en los individuos parasitados que no parasitados. Conclusiones: El parasitismo de D. argentinensis afecta negativamente la condición fisiológica de A. antarctica. Afecta a la reproducción en términos de bajo GI y puede causar castración. El parásito compite por los recursos energéticos de las estrellas de mar, disminuyendo también la capacidad del individuo para alimentarse (reducción del estómago) y crecer (reducción de la pared del cuerpo).

Abstract 19. Gastrointestinal parasitism is very common in horses in northeastern Argentina, where it is often subclinical, leading to losses in body development and reduced animal performance. The objective of this study was to characterize the population of gastrointestinal nematodes in horses from the town of Gobernador Virasoro, Corrientes, used in the artisanal production of bricks. An observational cross-sectional descriptive study design was used and non-probability convenience sampling was performed. The number of eggs per gram of feces was determined by coprological examinations (modified McMaster technique), and all samples with the presence of gastrointestinal nematode eggs were considered positive. Morphologically, eggs of the order Strongylida were distinguished from eggs of Parascaris equorum and Oxyuris equi and the possible combinations between them. Parasitic genera of the order Strongylida were identified from pool coprocultures, differentiating between large and small strongyles. The results showed that 94.79% of the samples were positive, of which 83.43% corresponded to the order Strongylida only, 10.98% to the combination with eggs of P. equorum and 5.59% to the combination with eggs of O. equi. The highest average number of eggs belonged to the Strongylida order, with 90.55% corresponding to small strongyles. The results of this study suggest that gastrointestinal parasitism is a major problem in the working horse population of Gobernador Virasoro and could have a negative impact on animal health and performance.

Resumen 15. En el nordeste argentino son muy frecuentes las parasitosis gastrointestinales en los equinos, presentes de forma subclínica, provocando pérdidas en el desarrollo corporal y disminución en el rendimiento de los animales. El objetivo fue caracterizar la población de los nematodos gastrointestinales en equinos de la localidad de Gobernador Virasoro (Corrientes) a través del examen coprológico, utilizados como animal de trabajo en la fabricación artesanal de ladrillos. Se utilizó un diseño de estudio observacional transversal descriptivo, para ello se realizaron muestreos de conveniencia de tipo no probabilísticos. Se realizó el recuento de huevos por gramo de materia fecal mediante estudios coprológicos (técnica de McMaster modificada), donde se consideró como positivas a todas aquellas muestras con presencia de huevos de nematodos gastrointestinales. Se diferenció morfológicamente entre huevos del orden Strongylida y huevos de Parascaris equorum y Oxyuris equi, y las combinaciones que pudieran presentarse entre ellos. Los géneros parasitarios del orden Strongylida se identificaron a partir de coprocultivos en pool diferenciando entre grandes y pequeños estrongilos. El 94,79% de las muestras fueron positivas, de las cuales el 83,43% correspondieron únicamente al orden Strongylida, el 10,98% a la combinación con huevos de P. equorum, y el 5,59% a la combinación con huevos de O. equi. Los mayores promedios de recuentos de huevos pertenecieron al orden Strongylida, donde mediante coprocultivo se determinó que el 90,55% correspondió a pequeños estróngilos. Los resultados de este estudio sugieren que la parasitosis gastrointestinal es un problema importante en la población de equinos de trabajo de Gobernador Virasoro, y podrían tener un impacto negativo en la salud y el rendimiento de los animales.

Resumen Las relaciones entre diversas poblaciones permiten describir diferentes tipos de interacción entre especies, como el consumo, la búsqueda de alimento, el parasitismo, la polinización, por mencionar algunas. Cuando éstas ocurren entre recursos y consumidores se conocen como relaciones tróficas, y el conjunto de relaciones tróficas de una comunidad o un ecosistema describe a una red alimentaria. Estas redes son de importancia ecológica ya que permiten describir la dirección y el flujo de energía dentro del ecosistema, son esenciales para analizar la dinámica y biodiversidad del sistema, y su construcción realista es clave para el estudio de comunidades biológicas. En las últimas décadas, algunos autores han propuesto modelos que reproducen varias propiedades importantes de redes alimentarias. Sin embargo, hasta donde sabemos, la aplicación de dichos modelos no ha sido estandarizada ni puesta a disposición de la comunidad científica en algún repositorio público. En este trabajo presentamos 3 de los modelos más usados para crear redes alimentarias e indicadores representativos que dan información sobre la estructura y composición de la red. Además, compartimos los códigos de los modelos e indicadores para que puedan ser replicados y usados en otras investigaciones.

Abstract The relationships between various populations allow the description of different types of interactions among species, such as consumption, foraging, parasitism, and pollination, to name a few. When these occur between resources and consumers, they are known as trophic relationships, and the set of trophic relationships in a community or an ecosystem describes a food web. These webs are of ecological importance as they outline the direction and flow of energy within the ecosystem, are essential for analyzing the dynamics and biodiversity of the system, and their realistic construction is key for studying biological communities. In recent decades, some authors have proposed models that replicate several important properties of food webs. However, as far as we know, the implementation of these models has not been standardized nor made available to the scientific community in any public repository. In this work, we present 3 of the most used models for creating food webs and representative indicators that provide information about structure and composition of the network. Additionally, we share the codes for the models and indicators so they can be replicated and used in other research.

Egeria densa is a submerged aquatic weed that can grow into dense monocultures in rivers and dams in South Africa, which negatively affects ecosystem functioning and services. The biological control agent Hydrellia egeriae Rodrigues-Júnior (Diptera: Ephydridae) was first released against Egeria densa Planchon (Hydrocharitaceae) in South Africa in 2018. Biotic resistance in an introduced range can have negative impacts on the ability of a biological control agent to establish and exert top-down pressure. Dipteran and lepidopteran species that are used as biological control agents are often susceptible to higher levels of parasitism in their introduced range than biological control agents from other insect orders. In addition, ecological analogues that are present in South Africa, make H. egeriae particularly vulnerable to biotic resistance. Considering this, post-release surveys were conducted to investigate if native parasitoids will extend their host range to include H. egeriae. Chaenusa seminervata van Achterberg, C. anervata van Achterberg (Braconidae: Alysiinae: Dacnusini) and Ademon lagarosiphonae van Achterberg (Braconidae: Opiinae) were reared from field-collected H. egeriae pupae, within a year of its release. These braconid parasitoids were previously recorded from a native herbivore, Hydrellia lagarosiphon Deeming (Diptera: Ephydridae). Parasitism levels of H. egeriae ranged from 50 to 74% in cold months and 0 to 60% in warmer months, with higher levels of parasitism at a site where H. lagarosiphon naturally occurs. This study also found that cumulative release events of the biological control agent increase the probability of parasitism of field populations, by directly increasing the host pool. However, biological control efficacy can potentially be increased by limiting release efforts to a maximum of two release events per site per season, with particular focus on releasing in warm (i.e. spring/summer) months. Continued post-release surveys are necessary to not only monitor H. egeriae's impact on E. densa, but also to obtain a better understanding of seasonal parasitism levels across E. densa-invaded sites in South Africa.

Resumo Um macho de Pteronura brasiliensis (Carnivora: Mustelidae) foi encontrado morto às margens do Rio Negro, no Pantanal do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, município de Aquidauana. Dois carrapatos encontrados aderidos à sua pele foram identificados, morfologicamente, como uma ninfa de segundo ínstar de Ornithodoros rostratus (Argasidae) e um macho de Amblyomma sculptum (Ixodidae). Para complementar a identificação morfológica, esses espécimes de carrapatos foram submetidos à extração de DNA e testados por meio de ensaios de PCR, para confirmar a identidade molecular dos espécimes. Além disso, os extraídos dos carrapatos foram testados e revelaram-se negativos nos ensaios de PCR para todos os patógenos testados. Também foram examinados 30 lotes, compostos por 174 indivíduos de O. rostratus, depositados na Coleção Acari do Instituto Butantan, e encontramos material de quatro estados brasileiros, incluindo-se um lote contendo 2 machos e 2 fêmeas de Aquidauana, estado de Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), coletado do solo. Este foi, portanto, o primeiro registro de O. rostratus parasitando P. brasiliensis e o primeiro registro de localidade (Aquidauana). Da mesma forma, A. sculptum é comumente encontrado no Pantanal e relatado aqui, pela segunda vez, parasitando a ariranha, hospedeiro pouco estudado em relação a ectoparasitas. Carnivora (Carnivora Mustelidae Negro Aquidauana identificados morfologicamente Argasidae (Argasidae Ixodidae. Ixodidae . (Ixodidae) morfológica disso revelaramse revelaram se 3 lotes 17 O Butantan brasileiros incluindose incluindo MS, MS , (MS) solo portanto P (Aquidauana) forma A aqui vez ariranha ectoparasitas (Ixodidae 1 (MS (Aquidauana

Abstract A male of Pteronura brasiliensis (Carnivora: Mustelidae) was found dead on the banks of the Rio Negro, in the Pantanal wetlands of Mato Grosso do Sul state, Aquidauana municipality. Two ticks found attached to its skin were morphologically identified as a second-instar nymph of Ornithodoros rostratus (Argasidae) and a male of Amblyomma sculptum (Ixodidae). In order to complement the morphological identification, these tick specimens were subjected to DNA extraction, and tested using PCR assays to confirm the molecular identity the specimens. Also, the tick DNA samples were tested and were negative in the PCR assays for all the pathogens tested. We also examined 30 batches, consisting of 174 individuals of O. rostratus deposited in the Acari Collection of the Butantan Institute, and we found material from four Brazilian states, including one batch containing 2 males and 2 females from Aquidauana, of Mato Grosso do Sul state, collected from the soil. This was therefore the first record of O. rostratus parasitizing P. brasiliensis and the first locality record (Aquidauana). Likewise, A. sculptum is commonly found in the Pantanal and is reported here for the second time parasitizing the giant otter, which is a host little studied regarding the ectoparasites. Carnivora (Carnivora Mustelidae Negro state municipality secondinstar instar Argasidae (Argasidae Ixodidae. Ixodidae . (Ixodidae) identification extraction Also 3 batches 17 O Institute states soil P Aquidauana. (Aquidauana) Likewise otter ectoparasites (Ixodidae 1 (Aquidauana

Resumo O cabeçudo, Peltocephalus dumerilianus, é endêmico das bacias dos rios Orinoco e Amazonas. Ele é uma fonte de alimento para as comunidades locais, frequentemente de maneira insustentável. O conhecimento sobre a fauna parasitológica de P. dumerilianus e suas relações hospedeiro-parasito são limitados. Assim, investigou-se os aspectos ecológicos do parasitismo gastrointestinal nessa espécie. Helmintos encontrados no trato gastrointestinal de 21 tartarugas, foram identificados morfologicamente e descritores de infecção calculados. Todos os animais abrigavam helmintos: nematoides Ancyracanthus pinnatifidus, Paratractis hystrix, Atractis trematophila, Klossinemella conciliatus e três espécies de Klossinemella indeterminados, além dos digenéticos Nematophila grandis, Helicotrema spirale e Telorchis hagmanni. A maior carga parasitária ocorreu no intestino grosso, seguida pelo intestino delgado e estômago. O comprimento da carapaça correlacionou-se diretamente com a carga de parasitos de helmintos heteroxênicos, e os machos apresentaram uma carga parasitária maior que as fêmeas. Este é o primeiro registro de A. trematophila, K. conciliatus e T. hagmanni em P. dumerilianus, e um novo registro de local para A. trematophila, P. hystrix, N. grandis, H. spirale e T. hagmanni. Três potenciais novas espécies de Klossinemella são apresentadas. cabeçudo Amazonas locais insustentável P hospedeiroparasito hospedeiro parasito limitados Assim investigouse investigou se espécie 2 tartarugas calculados pinnatifidus hystrix trematophila indeterminados grandis grosso estômago correlacionouse correlacionou heteroxênicos fêmeas K T N H apresentadas

Abstract The big-headed Amazon River turtle, Peltocephalus dumerilianus, is endemic to the Orinoco and Amazon River basins. It is a food source for local communities, often unsustainably. Knowledge about P. dumerilianus’ parasitological fauna and host-parasite relationships is limited. Thus, ecological aspects of gastrointestinal parasitism in this species were investigated. Helminths were found in the gastrointestinal tract of 21 turtles, morphologically identified, and infection descriptors calculated. All animals harbored helminths: nematodes Ancyracanthus pinnatifidus, Paratractis hystrix, Atractis trematophila, Klossinemella conciliatus indeterminate three Klossinemella species, and digeneans Nematophila grandis, Helicotrema spirale, and Telorchis hagmanni. The highest parasite load occurred in the large intestine, followed by the small intestine and stomach. Shell length directly correlated with parasite burden of heteroxenic helminths, with males having higher burden than females. This is the first record of A. trematophila, K. conciliatus, and T. hagmanni in P. dumerilianus, and new location record for A. trematophila, P. hystrix, N. grandis, H. spirale, and T. hagmanni. Three potentially new Klossinemella species are presented. bigheaded big headed turtle dumerilianus basins communities unsustainably P hostparasite host limited Thus investigated 2 turtles identified calculated helminths pinnatifidus hystrix trematophila grandis spirale stomach females A K T N H presented

ABSTRACT Great advances were made in recent years regarding the description of immatures of Cassidinae and their taxonomy as a whole, but many taxa remain undescribed. This study focuses on updating morphological data for Hybosa acutangula Spaeth, 1913 (Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae: Ischyrosonychini), a tortoise beetle native of South America, which was collected in Fridericia florida (DC.) L. G. Lohmann in the Brazilian Cerrado. We provide descriptions and illustrations of the morphology of the larva, pupa, and genitalia of adults, all of which are novel for this genus. The main discerning features for this species among other Ischyrosonychini are the lack of dark patterns in the dorsum of either the larvae, being limited to the dark scoli and the cranium, or the pupae, and a much reduced anal fork. We also present the first record of parasitism by Chalcididae wasps, Brachymeria sp. Westwood, 1832 and Conura sp. Spinola, 1837. Morphological comparisons remain limited demanding further studies with other species of Ischyrosonychini, as to better understand the placement of this species within the taxonomy of tortoise beetles. whole undescribed Spaeth 191 Chrysomelidae (Chrysomelidae , Ischyrosonychini) America DC. DC (DC. L G Cerrado larva pupa adults genus larvae cranium pupae fork wasps sp Westwood 183 Spinola 1837 beetles 19 (DC 18 1

ABSTRACT Introduction: Globally, Blastocystis spp. is the protozoan most frequently found in the feces of humans and other animals. In Cuba, the 2009 National Survey of Intestinal Parasitism demonstrated that infection by Blastocystis spp. was the most prevalent parasitism. The association between blastocystosis and urticaria has been increasingly reported in the international literature. This association, little known among Cuban health professionals, has not been studied in our country. Objectives: To describe the mechanisms of the association between blastocystosis and urticaria. Methods: Through an electronic search in PubMed, Medline and Google Scholar databases, a review was carried out of the articles published during the period 2003-2023 on the evidence and mechanisms of association between blastocystosis and urticaria. Purposely, monographs and original articles dated prior to the aforementioned interval were also consulted. Results: Updated information on the selected topics is presented and analyzed with an academic and healthcare approach. Conclusions: Epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic evidence demonstrates an association between infection by Blastocystis spp. and the development of urticaria. Recent works, still insufficient, describes the mechanisms that would explain this association. Some of these mechanisms are similar to those related to the development of urticarial lesions during other parasitic infections. For this reason, the diagnosis and treatment of urticarial lesions of possible parasitic etiologies must be done from an approach that takes into account not only the common socioeconomic and health conditions that promote them, but also the possible enhancing effect of the mechanisms of those of a cause on those of others.

RESUMEN Introducción: Globalmente, Blastocystis spp. es el protozoo más frecuentemente encontrado en las heces de humanos y otros animales. En Cuba, la Encuesta Nacional de Parasitismo Intestinal de 2009 demostró que la infección por Blastocystis spp. era la parasitosis más prevalente. La asociación entre blastocistosis y urticaria ha sido reportada de manera creciente en la literatura internacional. Esa asociación, poco conocida entre los profesionales de la salud cubanos, no ha sido estudiada en nuestro país. Objetivos: Describir la asociación entre blastocistosis y urticaria. Métodos: Mediante búsqueda electrónica en las bases de datos PubMed, Medline y Google Scholar, se realizó una revisión de los artículos publicados durante el período 2003-2023 sobre las evidencias y los mecanismos de asociación entre blastocistosis y urticaria. Puntualmente, también fueron consultados monografías y artículos originales fechados con anterioridad al intervalo mencionado. Resultados: Se expone y analiza, con un enfoque académico y asistencial, la información actualizada sobre los temas seleccionados. Conclusiones: Evidencias epidemiológicas, clínicas y terapéuticas demuestran asociación entre la infección por Blastocystis spp. y el desarrollo de urticaria. Trabajos recientes, insuficientes aún, describen los mecanismos que explicarían esa asociación. Algunos de esos mecanismos son similares a los relacionados con el desarrollo de lesiones urticarianas en el curso de otras infecciones parasitarias. Por ese motivo, el diagnóstico y tratamiento de lesiones urticarianas de posibles etiologías parasitarias debe hacerse desde un enfoque que tenga en cuenta no solo las condiciones socioeconómicas y sanitarias comunes que las propician, sino también el posible efecto potenciador de los mecanismos de las de una causa sobre los de otras.

Abstract Haemonchus contortus is an important parasite in sheep and the abuse of anti-helminthics has resulted in a rapid resistance. Little is known about the abomasal microbiota in sheep and the relation to local parasitism. This study aimed to identify bacteria in the abomasum of sheep, through the abomasal content, abomasal mucosa, and adult H. contortus parasites, in high and low parasitism. Eight sheep naturally infected with H. contortus were classified as high (n = 4) and low infection (n = 4). Samples of abomasal contents, abomasal mucosa, and adult H. contortus parasites were collected. Samples were pooled to form six groups, three in each level of parasitism: high infection/abomasal contents (HC), high infection/mucosa (HM), high infection/parasites (HP); low infection/abomasal contents (LC), low infection/mucosa (LM), and low infection/parasites (LP). Molecular identification of bacteria was performed by the amplification and sequencing of the 16S rRNA bacterial gene. A similar distribution of phyla was observed between pools HC/LC and HP/LP. For pools HM/LM, there was a significant difference (p = 0.01) in the proportion of phyla observed. The bacterial phyla predominant for libraries HC/LC were Firmicutes (82% and 62%) and Bacteroidetes (10.4% and 17.6%); for HM/LM, Firmicutes (76.9% and 56%) and Proteobacteria (10.2% and 38.4%); and for HP/LP, Proteobacteria (42.8% and 55%) and Firmicutes (31.6% and 40%). We observed differences about the samples analyzed, suggesting that there are various bacterial communities closely associated with the different materials analyzed, even from the close environment. antihelminthics anti helminthics resistance parasitism content mucosa H n 4 4. . collected groups infectionabomasal HC, HC , (HC) infectionmucosa HM, HM (HM) infectionparasites HP (HP) LC, LC (LC) LM, LM (LM) LP. LP (LP) S gene HCLC HPLP HP/LP HMLM HM/LM p 0.01 001 0 01 82% 82 (82 62% 62 10.4% 104 10 (10.4 17.6% 176 17 6 17.6%) 76.9% 769 76 9 (76.9 56% 56 10.2% 102 2 (10.2 38.4% 384 38 38.4%) 42.8% 428 42 8 (42.8 55% 55 31.6% 316 31 (31.6 40%. 40 40% 40%) analyzed environment (HC (HM (HP (LC (LM (LP 0.0 00 (8 10.4 1 (10. 17.6 76.9 7 (76. 5 10.2 38.4 3 42.8 (42. 31.6 (31. 0. ( 10. (10 17. 76. (76 38. 42. (42 31. (31 (1 (7 (4 (3

RESUMO Relações simbióticas são associações onde duas ou mais espécies vivem intimamente associadas, incluindo parasitismo, forese, mutualismo e outros. Em ácaros, uma das associações mais comuns ocorre entre larvas de Leptus (Erythraeidae), gênero cosmopolita que parasita diversos grupos de artrópodes. No entanto, no Brasil, esses relatos são escassos. No presente estudo, registramos o número de larvas ectoparasitas de ácaros eritreídeos do gênero Leptus encontradas associadas a opiliões da espécie Gonyleptes fragilis Mello-Leitão, 1923 (Gonyleptidae) em um fragmento de Mata Atlântica (Cubatão, São Paulo, Brasil), coletadas ao longo de um ano, entre as quatro estações. Registramos 405 larvas de ácaros associadas a 152 indivíduos de opiliões. A intensidade e prevalência da infecção do ácaro, variação sazonal, preferência do ácaro por partes do corpo e sexo do hospedeiro foram os parâmetros usados para determinar a relação parasita-hospedeiro. A intensidade média de infestação (número de ácaros por indivíduo) variou de 0,3 a 11,3 com intensidade máxima observada de 20 ácaros/indivíduo. Não houve preferência sexual do hospedeiro e quanto à sazonalidade, houve diferenças entre intensidade de infestação e estação do ano, sendo a infestação maior no verão em relação às outras estações. Quanto à localização, a maioria dos ácaros foi encontrada na região mediana do escudo dorsal, próximo à região mediana das áreas III e IV. Este estudo fornece a primeira descrição da variação anual e sazonal na infestação de ácaros em opiliões na Mata Atlântica brasileira. parasitismo forese outros Erythraeidae, Erythraeidae , (Erythraeidae) artrópodes entanto Brasil escassos MelloLeitão, MelloLeitão Mello Leitão, Leitão Mello-Leitão 192 Gonyleptidae (Gonyleptidae Cubatão, Cubatão (Cubatão Paulo Brasil) ano estações 40 15 parasitahospedeiro. parasitahospedeiro hospedeiro. parasita-hospedeiro indivíduo 03 0 3 0, 113 11 11, 2 ácarosindivíduo ácaros/indivíduo sazonalidade localização dorsal IV brasileira (Erythraeidae 19 4 1

ABSTRACT Symbiotic relationships are associations where two or more species live closely associated, including parasitism, phoresis, mutualism, and others. In mites, one of the most common associations occurs between larvae of Leptus (Erythraeidae), a cosmopolitan genus that parasitizes several groups of arthropods. However, in Brazil, these reports are scarce. In the present study, we recorded the number of ectoparasitic erythraeid mite larvae of the genus Leptus found associated to Opiliones of the species Gonyleptes fragilis Mello-Leitão, 1923 (Gonyleptidae) in an Atlantic Forest fragment (Cubatão, São Paulo, Brazil), collected over one year, between the four seasons. We recorded 405 mite larvae associated with 152 opilionid individuals. The intensity and prevalence of mite’s infection, seasonal variation, mite’s preference for body parts and host sex were the parameters used to determine host-parasite relationship. Mean infestation intensity (number of mites per individual) ranged from 0.3 to 11.3 with maximum observed intensity of 20 mites/individual. There was no sexual host preference and regarding seasonality, there were differences between infestation intensity and season with infestation being higher in summer compared to the other seasons. As for location, most mites were found in the median region of the dorsal shield, near the median frame of area III and IV. This study provides the first description of annual and seasonal variation in mite infestation on Opiliones in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. parasitism phoresis mutualism others Erythraeidae, Erythraeidae , (Erythraeidae) arthropods However Brazil scarce MelloLeitão, MelloLeitão Mello Leitão, Leitão Mello-Leitão 192 Gonyleptidae (Gonyleptidae Cubatão, Cubatão (Cubatão Paulo Brazil) year seasons 40 15 individuals s infection hostparasite parasite relationship individual 03 0 3 0. 113 11 11. 2 mitesindividual mites/individual seasonality location shield IV (Erythraeidae 19 4 1

Resumo As larvas de Oestrus ovis são parasitas obrigatórios de vertebrados e causam miíase cavitária (estrose) em ovinos e caprinos. Também é relatada como uma zoonose que causa oftalmomíase e miíase nasofaríngea. Apesar de relativamente comum no Brasil, os estudos epidemiológicos sobre O. ovis são escassos. Considerando que a infestação é influenciada pelo clima e biomas da região estudada, objetivou-se investigar a prevalência sazonal de O. ovis entre ovinos abatidos na região norte do estado de Mato Grosso, Brasil. Foram coletadas cabeças de ovinos (n=697) abatidos em frigorífico do município de Terra Nova do Norte (novembro de 2011 a novembro de 2013) para contagem, catalogação e identificação das larvas encontradas no trato respiratório superior. No geral, 45,77% (319/697) dos animais estavam infestados com 2.412 larvas recuperadas, das quais 96,89% (2.337/2.412) foram identificadas em nível de espécie como O. ovis. As variações sazonais na prevalência variaram de 41% (primavera) a 56% (verão); no entanto, não foi observada correlação entre prevalência e estação do ano, umidade média ou temperatura. Conclui-se que o parasitismo por O. ovis em ovinos na área estudada ocorre durante todo o ano, considerando a ocorrência de larvas (L1, L2 e L3) ao longo do ano, provavelmente devido às condições ambientais da área. estrose (estrose caprinos nasofaríngea Brasil O escassos objetivouse objetivou se Grosso n=697 n697 n 697 (n=697 201 2013 contagem superior geral 4577 45 77 45,77 319/697 319697 319 (319/697 2412 2 412 2.41 recuperadas 9689 96 89 96,89 2.337/2.412 23372412 337 (2.337/2.412 41 primavera (primavera 56 verão (verão) entanto ano temperatura Concluise Conclui L1, L1 L (L1 L3 n=69 n69 69 (n=69 20 457 4 7 45,7 319/69 31969 31 (319/69 241 2.4 968 9 8 96,8 2.337/2.41 2337241 33 (2.337/2.41 5 (verão (L n=6 n6 6 (n=6 45, 319/6 3196 3 (319/6 24 2. 96, 2.337/2.4 233724 (2.337/2.4 n= (n= 319/ (319/ 2.337/2. 23372 (2.337/2. (n (319 2.337/2 2337 (2.337/2 (31 2.337/ 233 (2.337/ (3 2.337 23 (2.337 ( 2.33 (2.33 2.3 (2.3 (2. (2

Abstract Oestrus ovis larvae are obligate parasites of vertebrates and cause cavitary myiasis (oestrosis) in sheep and goats. It is also reported as a zoonosis causing ophthalmomyiasis and nasopharyngeal myiasis. Despite being relatively common in Brazil, epidemiological studies on O. ovis are scarce. Considering that the infestation is influenced by the climate and biomes of the studied region, we aimed to investigate the seasonal prevalence of O. ovis among slaughtered sheep in the northern region of the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The heads of sheep (n=697) slaughtered at a slaughterhouse in the municipality of Terra Nova do Norte (November 2011 to November 2013) were collected to count, catalog, and identify the larvae found in the upper respiratory tract. Overall, 45.77% (319/697) of the animals were infested with 2,412 recovered larvae, 96.89% (2,337/2,412) of which were identified at the species level as O. ovis. Seasonal variations in prevalence ranged from 41% (spring) to 56% (summer); however, no correlation was observed between prevalence and season, mean humidity, or temperature. In conclusion, parasitism by O. ovis in sheep in the studied area, occurs year-round, considering the occurrence of larvae (L1, L2, and L3) throughout the year, probably because of the area's environmental conditions. oestrosis (oestrosis goats Brazil O scarce Grosso n=697 n697 n 697 (n=697 201 2013 count catalog tract Overall 4577 45 77 45.77 319/697 319697 319 (319/697 2412 2 412 2,41 9689 96 89 96.89 2,337/2,412 23372412 337 (2,337/2,412 41 spring (spring 56 summer (summer) however season humidity temperature conclusion area yearround, yearround year round, round year-round L1, L1 L (L1 L2 L3 areas s conditions n=69 n69 69 (n=69 20 457 4 7 45.7 319/69 31969 31 (319/69 241 2,4 968 9 8 96.8 2,337/2,41 2337241 33 (2,337/2,41 5 (summer (L n=6 n6 6 (n=6 45. 319/6 3196 3 (319/6 24 2, 96. 2,337/2,4 233724 (2,337/2,4 n= (n= 319/ (319/ 2,337/2, 23372 (2,337/2, (n (319 2,337/2 2337 (2,337/2 (31 2,337/ 233 (2,337/ (3 2,337 23 (2,337 ( 2,33 (2,33 2,3 (2,3 (2, (2