Specimens of Amblyomma sp. parasitizing Speothos venaticus in the eastern legal Amazon

Abstract

The infestation of ticks in Speothos venaticus (bush dog) represents a significant potential risk, as their interaction with various prey increases the likelihood of infection by multiple pathogens. Environmental changes, particularly those driven by human influence, can introduce new species of biologically active agents into specific fauna communities. Wild mammals, including the bush dog, play roles in the cycles of tick-borne pathogens. The study was conducted in the Carajás National Forest, Pará, Brazil, with tick samples collected from a bush dog that was a roadkill victim. Tick identification was performed using specimens with the aid of a stereomicroscope, supported by reference taxonomic keys. Two female Amblyomma incisum and one engorged female Rhipicephalus sp. were identified. The study reveals that the occurrence of these ticks may represent the first report in this particular region and animal. It underscores the importance of understanding the relationship between ticks and their hosts for biological conservation. The presence of ticks, including Rhipicephalus microplus, suggests interactions between wild animals and pasture areas. The occurrence of these tick genera in bush dogs highlights the breadth of their distribution. The eastern Amazon region faces environmental impacts, and the transmission of pathogens among wild animals, domestic animals, and humans can occur. Further studies are needed to understand the long-term impacts, considering zoonotic agents and the spillover of diseases between wildlife and humans.