Parasitic Fauna of Free‐Living Chelonoidis denticulatus From the Rio Acre Ecological Station and the Municipality of Cruzeiro do Sul, Western Amazon, Brazil

TL;DR

This study examines parasites in wild tortoises in Brazil, highlighting zoonotic risks and the need for environmental monitoring.

Contribution

The study provides new data on the parasitic fauna of Chelonoidis denticulatus in the western Amazon and its public health implications.

Findings

Ticks identified as Amblyomma humerale were found on tortoises, but no Rickettsia was detected.

Fecal samples revealed helminth eggs and Entamoeba spp. cysts, indicating environmental contamination.

Helminth species like Labiduris zschokkei were found in the viscera of consumed tortoises.

Abstract

Tortoises, such as Chelonoidis denticulatus, are described as hosts of many parasites, such as helminths and ticks of the genus Amblyomma, which are important vectors of rickettsial infection in Brazil. Additionally, the high consumption of meat from these animals in Acre results in a high risk of zoonotic outbreaks due to contact with the hosts and, consequently, associated pathogens. This study aimed to describe the parasitic fauna of C. denticulatus. Two sampling efforts were conducted: the capture of a sample population of tortoises at the Rio Acre Ecological Station (active search) and the collection of viscera from animals consumed in the municipality of Cruzeiro do Sul. Following active search and incidental findings, ectoparasite searches were performed, and fecal samples were collected for coproparasitological examination. After these procedures, the animals were released back into their habitat. In total, seven animals were collected, with ticks on various parts of their bodies. A total of 51 samples, identified as Amblyomma humerale, were sent for molecular analysis to search for Rickettsia (all negative). Eggs of helminths and protozoan cysts, such as Entamoeba spp., were found, indicating environmental contamination and a potential zoonotic risk. Viscera of 10 tortoises from Cruzeiro do Sul were analyzed to search for helminths, and the species Labiduris zschokkei, Chapiniella variabilis, and Haltrema spp. were observed. Considering that the sampled animals were free‐living, the analysis highlights the importance of maintaining environmental quality. With respect to cultural aspects, the consumption of wild animals in the western Amazon of Brazil is evident, and C. denticulatus is one of the most consumed species. The contact of these species with humans, in a consumption relationship, is considered a risk factor for the emergence of spillover events, and monitoring the pathogens associated with these species is crucial.

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