Intestinal parasites of the chimpanzee Pan troglodytes in Kibale Forest, Uganda

Abstract

One-hundred-and-twenty-three stool samples were examined from 45 chimpanzees in a natural population in western Uganda. Comparison with previous studies is complicated by the diversity of techniques used and interpretations. The Ugandan population had relatively many intestinal protozoa, including the probably beneficial entodiniomorph ciliates. Strongyloid nematodes are universal among chimpanzees, but were surprisingly absent from those on Mount Assirik in Senegal. Railletina tapeworms are sporadic in their occurrence. The absence of spiruroid nematodes in the Ugandan population reflects the absence of insectivory in this population. There was little evidence of seasonal difference in prevalences.