Distribution and incidence of ectoparasites on small mammals in a rainforest belt of southern Nigeria

Abstract

A total of 174 small mammalian hosts were trapped in Ekpoma, Bendel State, Nigeria from October, 1986 to September, 1987 and examined for ectoparasites. 108 infested hosts had 10 species of ectoparasites comprising three species of mites (Laelaps (Echinolaelaps) muricola, Laelaps (E.) gigantea and Laelaps (E.) echidninus); two species of ticks (Amblyomma variegatum and Ixodes sp.); two species of fleas (Xenopsylla cheopis and X. braziliensis); and on especies each of sucking lice (Polyplax spinulosa) and subcutaneous larvae of Cordylobia anthropophaga. Rise in seasonal rainfall positively influenced the incidence of C. anthropophaga and adult fleas, but decrease reduced the incidence of ticks, mites and lice. The incidence of parasitic infestation was influenced by age of host, but not by the sex. Ectoparasite distribution was uneven on their hosts.