Centrorhynchus spp. (Acanthocephala) in South America: new anuran record and checklist of vertebrate hosts.

The aim of this study was to record Centrorhynchus sp. associated with the exotic species Aquarana catesbeiana (bullfrog) in southern Brazil and to present a checklist of vertebrate hosts in South America. Twenty-nine adults and juveniles of A. catesbeiana were collected in Capão do Leão, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, between October 2019 and December 2020. We found 275 specimens of Centrorhynchus sp. cystacanths in the stomach musculature and coelomic cavity of 55.1% of hosts (16). There was no significant differences in the prevalence and mean intensity of infection with cystacanths when compared males and females of A. catesbeiana. The prevalence was significantly higher in adults than in juveniles. The checklist presents 106 species of vertebrate hosts and 14 taxa of Centrorhynchus recorded in nine South American countries. Avian were the main definitive hosts of Centrorhynchus spp. and snakes Dipsadidae, anurans Hylidae and Leptodactylidae the main paratenic hosts in South America. This is the first record of Centrorhynchus cystacanths in A. catesbeiana in the South America. The study provides tools to help understand the parasitic relationships between species of Centrorhynchus and A. catesbeiana and other hosts in areas where bullfrog have been introduced.

A new genus and new species of Cyclocoelidae (Digenea), a parasite in spotted rail, Pardirallus maculatus (Gruiformes: Rallidae), in the Pampa biome, southern Brazil.

Seventeen specimens of the spotted rail, Pardirallus maculatus (Boddaert) (Gruiformes: Rallidae), from the southern Brazil were examined for helminths. Three birds were positive for specimens of Cyclocoelidae (Digenea), which were found in both nasal and abdominal cavities. Helminths were described as Nasuscoelum pampensis n. gen., n. sp. The new genus has an intertesticular ovary forming a triangle with the testis, characterizing the Cyclocoelinae. Nasuscoelum pampensis n. gen., n. sp. is similar to Cyclocoelum mutabile (Zeder, 1800), however it differs from the latter by the presence of vitelline follicles confluence in the posterior region. A revised key to the Cyclocoelinae was proposed to include the new genus.

Parasite-host relations and new reports of helminths for Rhinella dorbignyi (Duméril & Bibron, 1841) (Anura: Bufonidae) from Neotropical region.

This study aimed to analyze helminth assemblage in Rhinella dorbignyi regarding host gender, size and mass in two sampling sites in southern Brazil, and to report new parasite associations. Anurans (n = 100) were collected in two localities from Rio Grande do Sul (RS) state, Brazil, from 2017 to 2020. Nineteen taxa (adults and larval forms) belonging to Nematoda, Acanthocephala, Digenea, and Cestoda were found in different infection sites. Cosmocercidae gen. spp., Physaloptera liophis, Catadiscus sp., and Cylindrotaenia americana were the dominant taxa in helminth assemblage. Female anurans showed higher helminth species richness than males considering the total sample (two localities) or one of the two localities. However, prevalence and mean intensity of infection did not show any significant difference between genders. Mean intensity of infection was significantly higher (19.52) in Laranjal locality. Host body size does not influence helminth abundance, as infections did not show significant correlation snout-vent length (SVL) nor body mass (BM) of anurans. The findings reveal anurans of R. dorbignyi may be intermediate, paratenic and definitive host for these parasites. Plagiorchioidea helminths (Digenea), Physaloptera liophis, larvae of Acuariidae and Spiroxys sp. (Nematoda), and cystacanth of Lueheia sp. (Acanthocephala) constitute new records for R. dorbignyi. Additionally, this is the first record of Cylindrotaenia americana larvae in this host species. Resulting information increases the knowledge on biodiversity and parasite-host relations and may help future conservation programs developed in ecosystems in the extreme south of Brazil.

The relation between columbiform birds (Columba livia) age and gender and infection indices of rhinonyssid and ereynetid mites.

Respiratory systems of birds may be parasitized by rhinonyssid and ereynetid mites, which are commonly found in their nasal cavities. Levels of infection caused by mites in relation to maturity and gender of birds have been poorly investigated. Although Columba livia is the host of both Tinaminyssus and Trispeleognathus species worldwide, there are no data on prevalence and mean intensity of infection by mites in immature and adult males and females. Therefore, this study aims to analyze infections in relation to characteristics of hosts in southern Brazil. In the sample of 160 birds under study, 24.38% were parasitized by rhinonyssid mites (Tinaminyssus melloi and Tinaminyssus columbae) while 5.0% were infested with ereynetid ones (Trispeleognathus striatus). Infections by rhinonyssid mites in immature and adult birds, as well as in male and female ones, were similar and there were no significant differences in prevalence and mean intensity of infection. However, when infections were analyzed separately, prevalence of T. melloi was significantly higher in immature (19.77%) than in adult (6.76%) birds (p = 0.021). Ereynetid mites, which parasitized only males, were more prevalent in adult (9.46%) than in immature (1.16%) birds (p = 0.025). Reproductive and behavioral characteristics of C. livia (e.g., year-round breeding and social behavior) may enable transmission and maintenance of mite populations, since direct contact among hosts and the presence of mites in their nests are considered forms of transmission. Even though information on the life history of mites is important to understand parasite-host relations, there is a gap in the biology of species commonly found in C. livia, which constitutes an area to be explored.

Gastrointestinal helminths associated with three species of freshwater turtles in the Pampa biome, southern Brazil.

Maintenance of the life cycle of a wide diversity of helminths depends on the aquatic environment. Freshwater turtles are considered one of the main groups in these ecosystems due to their high density and biomass. However, there is little information on the infection parameters of helminths associated with the Chelidae species Hydromedusa tectifera, Phrynops hilarii, and Acanthochelys spixii that occur in the Pampa biome. Therefore, this study aimed at analyzing the gastrointestinal helminth assemblage of the three species. Analyses showed that A. spixii was associated with 11 helminth taxa while P. hilarii and H. tectifera were parasitized by eight taxa each. The gastrointestinal helminth assemblage of A. spixii and H. tectifera showed high similarity by the Morisita index. Infections suggest that the helminth fauna is directly related to the diet of the hosts, since A. spixii, P. hilarii, and H. tectifera are generalist and/or opportunistic with diets composed of various invertebrates, which, in turn, are part of the life cycles as intermediate hosts of most of the identified helminths. Thus, this study highlights not only the importance of helminthological research for the understanding of the biology of host organisms, but also the need for conservation of flooded areas characteristic of the Pampa biome, which is essential to maintain the diversity of the ecosystem.

Rhinonyssus rhinolethrum (Trouessart, 1895) (Mesostigmata: Rhinonyssidae) in Netta peposaca (Vieillot, 1816) (Anseriformes: Anatidae) from Southern Brazil.

Netta peposaca is an anatid endemic to the South American continent and Rhinonyssus rhinolethrum is a rhinonissid mite of wide geographical distribution parasitizing several species of anatids. The association between these organisms has been reported in Argentina; however, the number of birds examined and the parasite indices have not been reported. Thus, the objective of this study was to know the diversity of nasal mites associated with N. peposaca in southern of Brazil and the parasitological indices. The nasal cavities of 30 birds from two locations in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, were examined to collect mites. Rhinonyssus rhinolethrum occurred in 16.67% of the birds with an infection intensity of 3-24 mites/host. Infections in male and female hosts showed no significant differences. This study records for the first time R. rhinolethrum and its infection indices in N. peposaca in the southern of Brazil.

Dioctophimosis: A Parasitic Zoonosis of Public Health Importance.

Dioctophyme renale, the giant kidney worm, is a renal nematode from domestic and wild mammals that has zoonotic potential. In humans, dioctophimosis has been reported in several countries, mainly on the Asian continent, totaling more than 40 cases, which describe the parasite mainly infecting the kidneys, bladder, urethra and skin. Infection in animals and humans is related to the ingestion of the infective larva (L3) present in the aquatic oligochaete annelid (mandatory intermediate host) or fish and anurans (facultative paratenic hosts). Thus, the infection is related to the habit of drinking water contaminated with the mandatory intermediate host, as well as raw or undercooked meat from the facultative paratenic hosts. Dioctophimosis destroys the renal parenchyma and, in some cases, can cause the death of its hosts. In this chapter, we discuss the main topics regarding dioctophimosis in humans, domestic and wild animals, highlighting its importance in public health.

Helminth’s assemblage of Trachemys dorbigni (Testudines: Emydidae) in southern Brazil: implications of anthropogenic environments and host’s genders / Assembleia de helmintos de Trachemys dorbigni (Testudines: Emydidae) no sul do Brasil: implicações dos ambientes antrópicos e do gênero sexual dos hospedeiros

The assemblage of helminths of Trachemys dorbigni was analyzed according two environments (rural and urban) and according to host’s gender. Thus, the helminths found were: Spiroxys contortus (Rudolphi, 1819), Falcaustra affinis (Leidy, 1856), Camallanus emydidius Mascarenhas & Müller, 2017, Dioctophyme renale (Goeze, 1782) (larvae), Eustrongylides sp. (larvae) (Nematoda), Telorchis corti (Stunkard, 1915), Telorchis achavali Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector, 1973, Telorchis spp. (Digenea), Polystomoides rohdei Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector,1968 and Neopolystoma sp. (Monogenoidea). Parasitological indices suggests that S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius, T. corti and P. rohdei are species common in helminth assemblage of T. dorbigni in southern Brazil. Infection by Dioctophyme renale is typical of the urban area and suggest relation with eutrophication process and feedback of parasitic cycle in the freshwater urban environment. Parasitological indices of Neopolystoma sp. and T. achavali suggest to be occasional infections; whereas infection by Eustrongylides sp. could be considered accidental. About Telorchiidae, there was no co-occurrence of the species of this group for the examined hosts. In relation to host’s gender, it was observed that infections by S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius and T. corti had higher rates in females, showing a more intimate association with the females of T. dorbigni. The results suggest that human impact on the environment could affect the infrapopulacional dynamics of parasite species influencing the presence and rates of infection of helminths or exacerbating heterogeneities related to host’s gender.

A assembleia de helmintos de Trachemys dorbigni foi analizada de acordo com dois ambientes (rural e urbano) e de acordo com o gênero sexual dos hospedeiros. Os helmintos encontrados foram: Spiroxys contortus (Rudolphi, 1819), Falcaustra affinis (Leidy, 1856), Camallanus emydidius Mascarenhas & Müller, 2017, Dioctophyme renale (Goeze, 1782) (larva), Eustrongylides sp. (larva) (Nematoda), Telorchis corti (Stunkard, 1915), Telorchis achavali Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector, 1973, Telorchis spp. (Digenea), Polystomoides rohdei Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector,1968 and Neopolystoma sp. (Monogenoidea). Os indices parasitológicos sugerem que S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius, T. corti e P. rohdei são espécies comuns da assembleia de helmintos de T. dorbigni no extremo sul do Brasil. A infecção por Dioctophyme renale é tipica da area urbana e sugere estar relacionada com os processos de eutrofização e a retroalimentação do ciclo parasitário no ambiente aquático urbano. Os indices parasitológicos de Neopolystoma sp. e T. achavali sugerem que a infecção por estes seja occasional; a infecção por Eustrongylides sp. pode ser considerada acidental. Não houve co-ocorrência entre as espécies de Telorchiidae. Em relação ao gênero sexual, observou-se que as infecções por S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius e T. corti apresentaram taxas mais elevadas nas fêmeas, mostrando uma associação mais íntima com as fêmeas de T. dorbigni. Os resultados sugerem que o impacto humano sobre o ambiente pode afetar a dinâmica das infrapopulações dos helmintos parasitos, influenciando a presença e os índices de infecção de helmintos ou exacerbando heterogeneidades relacionadas ao gênero sexual dos hospedeiros.

Helminths assemblage of Trachemys dorbigni (Testudines: Emydidae) in southern Brazil: implications of anthropogenic environments and hosts genders

ABSTRACT The assemblage of helminths of Trachemys dorbigni was analyzed according two environments (rural and urban) and according to hosts gender. Thus, the helminths found were: Spiroxys contortus (Rudolphi, 1819), Falcaustra affinis (Leidy, 1856), Camallanus emydidius Mascarenhas & Müller, 2017, Dioctophyme renale (Goeze, 1782) (larvae), Eustrongylides sp. (larvae) (Nematoda), Telorchis corti (Stunkard, 1915), Telorchis achavali Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector, 1973, Telorchis spp. (Digenea), Polystomoides rohdei Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector,1968 and Neopolystoma sp. (Monogenoidea). Parasitological indices suggests that S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius, T. corti and P. rohdei are species common in helminth assemblage of T. dorbigni in southern Brazil. Infection by Dioctophyme renale is typical of the urban area and suggest relation with eutrophication process and feedback of parasitic cycle in the freshwater urban environment. Parasitological indices of Neopolystoma sp. and T. achavali suggest to be occasional infections; whereas infection by Eustrongylides sp. could be considered accidental. About Telorchiidae, there was no co-occurrence of the species of this group for the examined hosts. In relation to hosts gender, it was observed that infections by S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius and T. corti had higher rates in females, showing a more intimate association with the females of T. dorbigni. The results suggest that human impact on the environment could affect the infrapopulacional dynamics of parasite species influencing the presence and rates of infection of helminths or exacerbating heterogeneities related to hosts gender.

RESUMO A assembleia de helmintos de Trachemys dorbigni foi analizada de acordo com dois ambientes (rural e urbano) e de acordo com o gênero sexual dos hospedeiros. Os helmintos encontrados foram: Spiroxys contortus (Rudolphi, 1819), Falcaustra affinis (Leidy, 1856), Camallanus emydidius Mascarenhas & Müller, 2017, Dioctophyme renale (Goeze, 1782) (larva), Eustrongylides sp. (larva) (Nematoda), Telorchis corti (Stunkard, 1915), Telorchis achavali Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector, 1973, Telorchis spp. (Digenea), Polystomoides rohdei Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector,1968 and Neopolystoma sp. (Monogenoidea). Os indices parasitológicos sugerem que S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius, T. corti e P. rohdei são espécies comuns da assembleia de helmintos de T. dorbigni no extremo sul do Brasil. A infecção por Dioctophyme renale é tipica da area urbana e sugere estar relacionada com os processos de eutrofização e a retroalimentação do ciclo parasitário no ambiente aquático urbano. Os indices parasitológicos de Neopolystoma sp. e T. achavali sugerem que a infecção por estes seja occasional; a infecção por Eustrongylides sp. pode ser considerada acidental. Não houve co-ocorrência entre as espécies de Telorchiidae. Em relação ao gênero sexual, observou-se que as infecções por S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius e T. corti apresentaram taxas mais elevadas nas fêmeas, mostrando uma associação mais íntima com as fêmeas de T. dorbigni. Os resultados sugerem que o impacto humano sobre o ambiente pode afetar a dinâmica das infrapopulações dos helmintos parasitos, influenciando a presença e os índices de infecção de helmintos ou exacerbando heterogeneidades relacionadas ao gênero sexual dos hospedeiros.

Helminths assemblage of Trachemys dorbigni (Testudines: Emydidae) in southern Brazil: implications of anthropogenic environments and hosts genders / Assembleia de helmintos de Trachemys dorbigni (Testudines: Emydidae) no sul do Brasil: implicações dos ambientes antrópicos e do gênero sexual dos hospedeiros

The assemblage of helminths of Trachemys dorbigni was analyzed according two environments (rural and urban) and according to hosts gender. Thus, the helminths found were: Spiroxys contortus (Rudolphi, 1819), Falcaustra affinis (Leidy, 1856), Camallanus emydidius Mascarenhas & Müller, 2017, Dioctophyme renale (Goeze, 1782) (larvae), Eustrongylides sp. (larvae) (Nematoda), Telorchis corti (Stunkard, 1915), Telorchis achavali Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector, 1973, Telorchis spp. (Digenea), Polystomoides rohdei Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector,1968 and Neopolystoma sp. (Monogenoidea). Parasitological indices suggests that S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius, T. corti and P. rohdei are species common in helminth assemblage of T. dorbigni in southern Brazil. Infection by Dioctophyme renale is typical of the urban area and suggest relation with eutrophication process and feedback of parasitic cycle in the freshwater urban environment. Parasitological indices of Neopolystoma sp. and T. achavali suggest to be occasional infections; whereas infection by Eustrongylides sp. could be considered accidental. About Telorchiidae, there was no co-occurrence of the species of this group for the examined hosts. In relation to hosts gender, it was observed that infections by S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius and T. corti had higher rates in females, showing a more intimate association with the females of T. dorbigni. The results suggest that human impact on the environment could affect the infrapopulacional dynamics of parasite species influencing the presence and rates of infection of helminths or exacerbating heterogeneities related to hosts gender.(AU)

A assembleia de helmintos de Trachemys dorbigni foi analizada de acordo com dois ambientes (rural e urbano) e de acordo com o gênero sexual dos hospedeiros. Os helmintos encontrados foram: Spiroxys contortus (Rudolphi, 1819), Falcaustra affinis (Leidy, 1856), Camallanus emydidius Mascarenhas & Müller, 2017, Dioctophyme renale (Goeze, 1782) (larva), Eustrongylides sp. (larva) (Nematoda), Telorchis corti (Stunkard, 1915), Telorchis achavali Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector, 1973, Telorchis spp. (Digenea), Polystomoides rohdei Mañé-Garzón & Holcman-Spector,1968 and Neopolystoma sp. (Monogenoidea). Os indices parasitológicos sugerem que S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius, T. corti e P. rohdei são espécies comuns da assembleia de helmintos de T. dorbigni no extremo sul do Brasil. A infecção por Dioctophyme renale é tipica da area urbana e sugere estar relacionada com os processos de eutrofização e a retroalimentação do ciclo parasitário no ambiente aquático urbano. Os indices parasitológicos de Neopolystoma sp. e T. achavali sugerem que a infecção por estes seja occasional; a infecção por Eustrongylides sp. pode ser considerada acidental. Não houve co-ocorrência entre as espécies de Telorchiidae. Em relação ao gênero sexual, observou-se que as infecções por S. contortus, F. affinis, C. emydidius e T. corti apresentaram taxas mais elevadas nas fêmeas, mostrando uma associação mais íntima com as fêmeas de T. dorbigni. Os resultados sugerem que o impacto humano sobre o ambiente pode afetar a dinâmica das infrapopulações dos helmintos parasitos, influenciando a presença e os índices de infecção de helmintos ou exacerbando heterogeneidades relacionadas ao gênero sexual dos hospedeiros.(AU)

Digenetic helminths of Leptodactylus latrans (Anura: Leptodactylidae) and Rhinella dorbignyi (Anura: Bufonidae) in southern Brazil / Helmintos digenéticos de Leptodactylus latrans (Steffen, 1815) (Anura: Leptodactylidae) e Rhinella dorbignyi (Duméril & Bibron, 1841) (Anura: Bufonidae) no sul do Brasil

Anuros são citados como hospedeiros para uma vasta diversidade de helmintos, entretanto as informações relativas a helmintofauna de anuros no Brasil, são pouco abordadas, sobretudo na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul. Este estudo tem como objetivo registrar os helmintos digenéticos parasitos de Leptodactylus latrans e Rhinella dorbignyi no extremo sul do Brasil. Para realização da pesquisa foram coletados entre agosto de 2017 e agosto de 2018, 60 espécimes de anuros, L. latrans (n= 30) e R. dorbignyi (n= 30), os quais foram necropsiados e os helmintos coletados, fixados e corados para identificação conforme bibliografia especifica para cada grupo. Os índices de infecção estimados foram prevalência (P%), intensidade média de infecção (IMI) e abundância média (AM). Do total de anuros examinados, 28 indivíduos (46,66%) apresentaram helmintos digenéticos, totalizando 255 espécimes de parasitos. Leptodactylus latrans esteve parasitado por Gorgoderina megacysta (P = 40%), Haematoloechus freitasi (P = 23,33%), Catadiscus spp. (P = 30%), Plagiorchioideae gen. spp. (P = 63,33%), e Halipegus sp. (P = 3,33%), enquanto R. dorbignyi apresentou infecção por Gorgoderina sp. (P = 3,33%), Haematoloechus sp. (P = 3,33%), Catadiscus sp. (P = 3,33%), Plagiorchioideae gen. sp. (P = 3,33%), e Diplostomidae gen. spp. (metacercárias) (P = 6,66%).

Even though anurans have been hosts to an array of helminths, data on the helminth fauna of anurans in Brazil are scarce. This study aims at reporting digenetic helminths on Leptodactylus latrans (Steffen, 1815) and Rhinella dorbignyi (Duméril & Bibron, 1841) in southern of Brazil. Sixty specimens of anurans L. latrans (n= 30) and R. dorbignyi (n= 30) were collected between August 2017 and August 2018. Then, necropsy was performed and helminths were collected, fixed and dyed to be identified in agreement with specific bibliography. Estimated infection indices were prevalence (P%), mean intensity of infection (MII) and mean abundance (MA). Twenty-eight anurans (46.66%) exhibited digenetic helminths, totalizing 255 parasite specimens. Leptodactylus latrans was infected with Gorgoderina megacysta Mañé-Garzón & González, 1978 (Gorgoderidae) (P = 40%), Haematoloechus freitasi Mané Garzón & Solares, 1959 (Haematoloechidae) (P = 23.33%), Catadiscus spp. (Diplodiscidae) (P = 30%), Plagiorchioideae fam. gen. spp. (P = 63.33%) and Halipegus sp. (Derogenidae) (P = 3.33%), whereas R. dorbignyi was infected with Gorgoderina sp. (P = 3.33%), Haematoloechus sp. (P = 3.33%), Catadiscus sp. (P = 3.33%), Plagiorchioideae fam. gen. sp. (P = 3.33%) and Diplostomidae gen. spp. (metacercariae) (P = 6.66%).

New records of helminths in Chelidae freshwater turtles (Testudines) in South America / Novos registros de helmintos em tartarugas de água doce Chelidae (Testudines) na América do Sul

. Estudos helmintológicos com tartarugas de água doce Chelidae na América do Sul foram conduzidos na Argentina, Uruguai e Brasil, onde foram relatados nematoides, digenéticos e monogenéticos. Nesse contexto, o objetivo do estudo é registrar novas ocorrências de helmintos gastrintestinais associados a Acanthochelys spixii, Hydromedusa tectifera e Phrynops hilarii. Foram examinados 65 hospedeiros, provenientes da região sul do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Sete taxa pertencentes a Nematoda, Digenea e Monogenoidea são reportados em novos hospedeiros na América do Sul bem como, um Nematoda e dois Digenea tem novo registro de hospedeiro para o Brasil. Assim, o estudo amplia o conhecimento sobre a diversidade de helmintos e a distribuição geográfica dos taxa encontrados parasitando tartarugas Chelidae.

Helminthological studies with Chelidae freshwater turtles in South America were conducted in Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil, where nematodes, digeneans and monogeneans were reported. In this context, the study aims to report new cases of gastrointestinal helminth parasites of Acanthochelys spixii, Hydromedusa tectifera, and Phrynops hilarii. A total of 65 hosts from the southern region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, were examined. Seven taxa belonging to Nematoda, Digenea, and Monogenoidea have new cases on hosts Chelidae in South America, as well as a Nematoda and two Digenea have new host cases for Brazil. Thus, the study expands the knowledge about the diversity of helminths and the geographic distribution of taxa associated with Chelidae turtles.

New records of helminths in Chelidae freshwater turtles (Testudines) in South America / Novos registros de helmintos em tartarugas de água doce Chelidae (Testudines) na América do Sul

. Estudos helmintológicos com tartarugas de água doce Chelidae na América do Sul foram conduzidos na Argentina, Uruguai e Brasil, onde foram relatados nematoides, digenéticos e monogenéticos. Nesse contexto, o objetivo do estudo é registrar novas ocorrências de helmintos gastrintestinais associados a Acanthochelys spixii, Hydromedusa tectifera e Phrynops hilarii. Foram examinados 65 hospedeiros, provenientes da região sul do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Sete taxa pertencentes a Nematoda, Digenea e Monogenoidea são reportados em novos hospedeiros na América do Sul bem como, um Nematoda e dois Digenea tem novo registro de hospedeiro para o Brasil. Assim, o estudo amplia o conhecimento sobre a diversidade de helmintos e a distribuição geográfica dos taxa encontrados parasitando tartarugas Chelidae.(AU)

Helminthological studies with Chelidae freshwater turtles in South America were conducted in Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil, where nematodes, digeneans and monogeneans were reported. In this context, the study aims to report new cases of gastrointestinal helminth parasites of Acanthochelys spixii, Hydromedusa tectifera, and Phrynops hilarii. A total of 65 hosts from the southern region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, were examined. Seven taxa belonging to Nematoda, Digenea, and Monogenoidea have new cases on hosts Chelidae in South America, as well as a Nematoda and two Digenea have new host cases for Brazil. Thus, the study expands the knowledge about the diversity of helminths and the geographic distribution of taxa associated with Chelidae turtles.(AU)

Digenetic helminths of Leptodactylus latrans (Anura: Leptodactylidae) and Rhinella dorbignyi (Anura: Bufonidae) in southern Brazil / Helmintos digenéticos de Leptodactylus latrans (Steffen, 1815) (Anura: Leptodactylidae) e Rhinella dorbignyi (Duméril & Bibron, 1841) (Anura: Bufonidae) no sul do Brasil

Anuros são citados como hospedeiros para uma vasta diversidade de helmintos, entretanto as informações relativas a helmintofauna de anuros no Brasil, são pouco abordadas, sobretudo na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul. Este estudo tem como objetivo registrar os helmintos digenéticos parasitos de Leptodactylus latrans e Rhinella dorbignyi no extremo sul do Brasil. Para realização da pesquisa foram coletados entre agosto de 2017 e agosto de 2018, 60 espécimes de anuros, L. latrans (n= 30) e R. dorbignyi (n= 30), os quais foram necropsiados e os helmintos coletados, fixados e corados para identificação conforme bibliografia especifica para cada grupo. Os índices de infecção estimados foram prevalência (P%), intensidade média de infecção (IMI) e abundância média (AM). Do total de anuros examinados, 28 indivíduos (46,66%) apresentaram helmintos digenéticos, totalizando 255 espécimes de parasitos. Leptodactylus latrans esteve parasitado por Gorgoderina megacysta (P = 40%), Haematoloechus freitasi (P = 23,33%), Catadiscus spp. (P = 30%), Plagiorchioideae gen. spp. (P = 63,33%), e Halipegus sp. (P = 3,33%), enquanto R. dorbignyi apresentou infecção por Gorgoderina sp. (P = 3,33%), Haematoloechus sp. (P = 3,33%), Catadiscus sp. (P = 3,33%), Plagiorchioideae gen. sp. (P = 3,33%), e Diplostomidae gen. spp. (metacercárias) (P = 6,66%).(AU)

Even though anurans have been hosts to an array of helminths, data on the helminth fauna of anurans in Brazil are scarce. This study aims at reporting digenetic helminths on Leptodactylus latrans (Steffen, 1815) and Rhinella dorbignyi (Duméril & Bibron, 1841) in southern of Brazil. Sixty specimens of anurans L. latrans (n= 30) and R. dorbignyi (n= 30) were collected between August 2017 and August 2018. Then, necropsy was performed and helminths were collected, fixed and dyed to be identified in agreement with specific bibliography. Estimated infection indices were prevalence (P%), mean intensity of infection (MII) and mean abundance (MA). Twenty-eight anurans (46.66%) exhibited digenetic helminths, totalizing 255 parasite specimens. Leptodactylus latrans was infected with Gorgoderina megacysta Mañé-Garzón & González, 1978 (Gorgoderidae) (P = 40%), Haematoloechus freitasi Mané Garzón & Solares, 1959 (Haematoloechidae) (P = 23.33%), Catadiscus spp. (Diplodiscidae) (P = 30%), Plagiorchioideae fam. gen. spp. (P = 63.33%) and Halipegus sp. (Derogenidae) (P = 3.33%), whereas R. dorbignyi was infected with Gorgoderina sp. (P = 3.33%), Haematoloechus sp. (P = 3.33%), Catadiscus sp. (P = 3.33%), Plagiorchioideae fam. gen. sp. (P = 3.33%) and Diplostomidae gen. spp. (metacercariae) (P = 6.66%).(AU)

First record of Lagochilascaris minor (Nematoda: Ascarididae) in Leopardus geoffroyi (Carnivora: Felidae) in Brazil / Primeiro registro de Lagochilascaris minor (Nematoda: Ascarididae) em Leopardus geoffroyi (Carnivora: Felidae) no Brasil

Abstract Lagochilascariasis is a parasitic disease caused by nematodes of the genus Lagochilascaris. These parasites occur in the neotropical region and their definitive hosts are wild animals, domestic dogs and felids and, accidentally, humans. Here, infection by Lagochilascaris minor is recorded for the first time in a wild felid, in Brazil.

Resumo A lagochilascaríase é uma doença parasitária causada por nematoides do gênero Lagochilascaris. Com distribuição neotropical, este parasito tem como hospedeiros definitivos animais silvestres, canídeos e felídeos domésticos e, acidentalmente, seres humanos. Registra-se a primeira ocorrência de Lagochilascaris minor em um felídeo silvestre no Brasil.

First record of Lagochilascaris minor (Nematoda: Ascarididae) in Leopardus geoffroyi (Carnivora: Felidae) in Brazil.

Lagochilascariasis is a parasitic disease caused by nematodes of the genus Lagochilascaris. These parasites occur in the neotropical region and their definitive hosts are wild animals, domestic dogs and felids and, accidentally, humans. Here, infection by Lagochilascaris minor is recorded for the first time in a wild felid, in Brazil.

The role of freshwater fish in the life cycle of Dioctophyme renale in Southern Brazil.

Brazil stands out by the diverse records of Dioctopphyme renale in different hosts; however, there is little information about the life cycle of the nematode in the region. This study aims to report on third-stage larvae infections in fish in southern Brazil. In this context, 324 fish of different species belonging to Characiformes, Cyprinodontiformes and Siluriformes were collected in an urban area of Rio Grande do Sul State, where domestic and wild hosts were reported with the nematode. Of the total fish examined, 25(7.7%) were found to be parasitized by third-stage larvae of D. renale which were found encysted in the stomach serous membrane and in the celoma cavity of Hoplosternum littorale (Siluriformes) with a prevalence of 53.2% (25/47) and mean intensity of infection of 4.4 larvae/host (1 to 13 larvae). The occurrence of larvae in H. littorale indicates the presence of parasitosis in the region; however, the contribution of this fish species as a source of infection for dogs in urban areas must be considered with caution given the difficulties these dogs may face in the capture and predation of the fish to the point of effectively maintaining the urban cycle of D. renale. In addition, the low level of larvae registered in the total sample of fish examined indicates that these hosts are unlikely to play an important role in the transmission of D. renale to domestic animals in the region of the study.

Helminths Assemblage of the bare-faced ibis, Phimosus infuscatus (Lichtenstein, 1823) (Pelecaniformes: Threskiornithidae), in southern Brazil / Helmintos de Phimosus infuscatus (Lichtenstein, 1823) (Pelecaniformes: Threskiornithidae) no extremo sul do Brasil

Abstract Birds act as hosts for a variety of parasites, many of these are unreported. The literature provides scant information on the helminth fauna of Phimosus infuscatus. The presence of helminths were investigate in 28 birds from Pelotas, Capão do Leão, and Rio Grande in Rio Grande do Sul. The preparation and identification of helminths followed protocols. Prevalence (P%), mean intensity of infection (MII), and mean abundance (MA) were estimated. The following helminths were found: Hystrichis acanthocephalicus , Dioctophyme renale (larva), Porrocaecum heteropterum , Baruscapillaria sp., Aproctella carinii , Paradeletrocephalus minor, and Cyathostoma sp. (Nematoda); Echinostomatidae gen. sp., Tanaisia valida, and Athesmia sp. (Trematoda: Digenea) and Megalacanthus sp. (Cestoda). The most prevalent species were H. acanthocephalicus, P. heteropterum, Megalacanthus sp., and Echinostomatidae gen. sp. and Megalacanthus sp. had the highest MII and MA. There was a significant difference in the prevalence of H. acantocephalicus between female and male bird hosts. We report Echinostomatidae gen. sp., T. valida, Athesmia sp., Cyathostoma sp., A. carinii, P. minor, D. renale (larva), Baruscapillaria sp., and Megalacanthus sp. for the first time in P. infuscatus in Brazil.

Resumo As aves atuam como hospedeiros para uma ampla variedade de parasitos, muitos destes ainda desconhecidos. Foram examinadas 28 aves, provenientes dos municípios de Pelotas, Capão do Leão e Rio Grande. A coleta, preparação e identificação dos helmintos seguiu bibliografia específica. A assembleia de helmintos foi analisada através dos índices de prevalência (P%), intensidade média de infecção (IMI) e abundância (AM). A assembleia de helmintos de P. infuscatus estava composta por Nematoda: Hystrichis acanthocephalicus , Dioctophyme renale (larva), Porrocaecum heteropterum , Baruscapillaria sp., Aproctella carinii , Paradeletrocephalus minor, Cyathostoma sp.; Digenea: Echinostomatidae gen. sp., Tanaisia valida, Athesmia sp. e Megalacanthus sp. (Cestoda). As espécies mais prevalentes foram: H. acanthocephalicus, P. heteropterum , Megalacanthus sp. e Echinostomatidae gen. sp. A maior IMI e AM foi de Megalacanthus sp., onde observou-se diferença significativa na prevalência de H. acantocephalicus em hospedeiros fêmeas. Os helmintos Echinostomatidae gen. sp., T. valida, Athesmia sp., Cyathostoma sp., A. carinii, P. minor, D. renale (larva), Baruscapillaria sp., e Megalacanthus sp. são registrados pela primeira vez em P. infuscatus no Brasil.

Helminths Assemblage of the bare-faced ibis, Phimosus infuscatus (Lichtenstein, 1823) (Pelecaniformes: Threskiornithidae), in southern Brazil.

Birds act as hosts for a variety of parasites, many of these are unreported. The literature provides scant information on the helminth fauna of Phimosus infuscatus. The presence of helminths were investigate in 28 birds from Pelotas, Capão do Leão, and Rio Grande in Rio Grande do Sul. The preparation and identification of helminths followed protocols. Prevalence (P%), mean intensity of infection (MII), and mean abundance (MA) were estimated. The following helminths were found: Hystrichis acanthocephalicus , Dioctophyme renale (larva), Porrocaecum heteropterum , Baruscapillaria sp., Aproctella carinii , Paradeletrocephalus minor, and Cyathostoma sp. (Nematoda); Echinostomatidae gen. sp., Tanaisia valida, and Athesmia sp. (Trematoda: Digenea) and Megalacanthus sp. (Cestoda). The most prevalent species were H. acanthocephalicus, P. heteropterum, Megalacanthus sp., and Echinostomatidae gen. sp. and Megalacanthus sp. had the highest MII and MA. There was a significant difference in the prevalence of H. acantocephalicus between female and male bird hosts. We report Echinostomatidae gen. sp., T. valida, Athesmia sp., Cyathostoma sp., A. carinii, P. minor, D. renale (larva), Baruscapillaria sp., and Megalacanthus sp. for the first time in P. infuscatus in Brazil.

Helminths Assemblage of the bare-faced ibis, Phimosus infuscatus (Lichtenstein, 1823) (Pelecaniformes: Threskiornithidae), in southern Brazil / Helmintos de Phimosus infuscatus (Lichtenstein, 1823) (Pelecaniformes: Threskiornithidae) no extremo sul do Brasil

Birds act as hosts for a variety of parasites, many of these are unreported. The literature provides scant information on the helminth fauna of Phimosus infuscatus. The presence of helminths were investigate in 28 birds from Pelotas, Capão do Leão, and Rio Grande in Rio Grande do Sul. The preparation and identification of helminths followed protocols. Prevalence (P%), mean intensity of infection (MII), and mean abundance (MA) were estimated. The following helminths were found: Hystrichis acanthocephalicus , Dioctophyme renale (larva), Porrocaecum heteropterum , Baruscapillaria sp., Aproctella carinii , Paradeletrocephalus minor, and Cyathostoma sp. (Nematoda); Echinostomatidae gen. sp., Tanaisia valida, and Athesmia sp. (Trematoda: Digenea) and Megalacanthus sp. (Cestoda). The most prevalent species were H. acanthocephalicus, P. heteropterum, Megalacanthus sp., and Echinostomatidae gen. sp. and Megalacanthus sp. had the highest MII and MA. There was a significant difference in the prevalence of H. acantocephalicus between female and male bird hosts. We report Echinostomatidae gen. sp., T. valida, Athesmia sp., Cyathostoma sp., A. carinii, P. minor, D. renale (larva), Baruscapillaria sp., and Megalacanthus sp. for the first time in P. infuscatus in Brazil.(AU)

As aves atuam como hospedeiros para uma ampla variedade de parasitos, muitos destes ainda desconhecidos. Foram examinadas 28 aves, provenientes dos municípios de Pelotas, Capão do Leão e Rio Grande. A coleta, preparação e identificação dos helmintos seguiu bibliografia específica. A assembleia de helmintos foi analisada através dos índices de prevalência (P%), intensidade média de infecção (IMI) e abundância (AM). A assembleia de helmintos de P. infuscatus estava composta por Nematoda: Hystrichis acanthocephalicus , Dioctophyme renale (larva), Porrocaecum heteropterum , Baruscapillaria sp., Aproctella carinii , Paradeletrocephalus minor, Cyathostoma sp.; Digenea: Echinostomatidae gen. sp., Tanaisia valida, Athesmia sp. e Megalacanthus sp. (Cestoda). As espécies mais prevalentes foram: H. acanthocephalicus, P. heteropterum , Megalacanthus sp. e Echinostomatidae gen. sp. A maior IMI e AM foi de Megalacanthus sp., onde observou-se diferença significativa na prevalência de H. acantocephalicus em hospedeiros fêmeas. Os helmintos Echinostomatidae gen. sp., T. valida, Athesmia sp., Cyathostoma sp., A. carinii, P. minor, D. renale (larva), Baruscapillaria sp., e Megalacanthus sp. são registrados pela primeira vez em P. infuscatus no Brasil.(AU)