# Gastrointestinal parasites in West African chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) in Fongoli (Kedougou, Senegal)

## TL;DR

This study identifies various gastrointestinal parasites in chimpanzees in Senegal, some of which could be transmitted to humans.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in a habituated chimpanzee population with potential zoonotic implications.

## Key findings

- Six protozoa and six helminths were identified in chimpanzee stool samples.
- Protozoa were found in all individuals, while helminths were found in 70%.
- Chimpanzees harbored an average of 6 ± 1.41 parasite types per individual.

## Abstract

Natural ecosystems are severely disrupted by human activities. Our interactions with wildlife are intensifying and promoting zoonosis. Humans and chimpanzees can harbour and transmit pathogens to each other. The aim of this study is to improve our knowledge of the diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in Fongoli chimpanzees. This is a habituated group that has been monitored over the long term and whose members have all been identified. During the period from 22 February to 11 March 2022, we monitored them daily to collect fresh stool samples in a non-invasive manner. A total of 17 individuals were sampled for 39 faeces samples collected and fixed in 10 % formalin. In the laboratory, we performed a coproscopical analysis of the fixed faeces using flotation and sedimentation methods. The parasite diversity included six protozoa (Troglodytella spp., Troglocorys spp., Entamoeba coli, Entamoeba spp., an unidentified ciliate, and Coccidia) and six helminths (Enterobius spp., Strongyloides spp., Dicrocoelium spp., Ascaris spp., Spirurids, and Strongylids). We found protozoa in all individuals and helminths in 70 % of individuals. We found an average of 6
±
1.41 types of gastrointestinal parasites, including 1.47
±
1.07 helminths per individual. Chimpanzees in Fongoli harbour a significant diversity of intestinal parasites, some of which are common to humans and have zoonotic potential.