Species composition and distribution of animal ectoparasites in Kyrgyzstan

Аннотация

Background and Aim. Ectoparasites represent a significant threat to animal health and may act as vectors of infectious diseases. This study aimed to determine the species composition and geographical distribution of animal ectoparasites in Kyrgyzstan.

Materials and Methods. Ectoparasites were collected from livestock, companion animals, and birds across seven regions of Kyrgyzstan (Chuy, Talas, Issyk-Kul, Jalal-Abad, Osh, Batken, and Naryn) and the city of Bishkek during 2021-2022. Sampling included cattle, goats, sheep, horses, poultry, dogs, and cats. Collected specimens were identified using standard morphological methods.

Results. A total of 5,267 ectoparasite specimens were collected, which demonstrated substantial diversity across the study areas. The tick species Rhipicephalus turanicus was widely distributed in most regions, except for Issyk-Kul and Talas. Several species exhibited restricted geographical distribution. Specifically, Haemaphysalis sulcata and Hyalomma anatolicum were detected exclusively in the Chuy Valley, Dermacentor ushakovae in the Issyk-Kul region, Hyalomma asiaticum in Jalal-Abad region, and Dermacentor niveus and Dermacentor ushakovae in the Naryn region. Host specificity was observed among several ectoparasite species.

Conclusion. The study identified 12 tick species of the family Ixodidae, 2 species of the family Argasidae, and 2 species of blood-sucking insects of the family Hippoboscidae. The findings highlight the diversity and regional specificity of ectoparasite fauna in Kyrgyzstan and provide a basis for further epidemiological surveillance and control strategies.