Bat Ectoparasites (Acari, Diptera, Hemiptera, Siphonaptera) in the Grand Maghreb (Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia): A Literature Review and New Data.

BACKGROUND: Arthropods parasites of bats play a crucial role in both ecological and public health contexts, as they have the potential to transmit zoonotic agents. The study aims to identify the distribution, and host-parasite associations of bat ectoparasites in the Grand Maghreb region (Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia), which has been largely understudied. METHODS: A thorough analysis of published records was conducted and we included our own field data. RESULTS: The checklist reveals a total of 43 ectoparasite species, encompassing a range of taxa. The list comprises 9 tick species, 11 mite species (including a chigger-mite), 11 bat fly species, 3 species of bugs, and 9 species of fleas. Extensive research efforts uncovered 141 host-parasite associations. Our data presents several new country records, documenting for the first time the presence of Carios vespertilionis and Raymondia huberi in Tunisia, Ixodes simplex and Spinturnix plecotinus in Algeria. CONCLUSION: By compiling and analysing available information, we have provided for the first time an up-to-date checklist of bat ectoparasites and their host associations in the region. This knowledge contributes to a better understanding of the epidemiological implications associated with bat ectoparasites, emphasizing their ecological and public health importance. The study's findings call for continued investigations and monitoring of bat ectoparasites to mitigate potential risks and safeguard both human and animal populations.