Genetic identification of gastrointestinal parasites in the world’s most endangered ungulate, the hirola (Beatragus hunteri)

Abstract

Background The hirola (Beatragus hunteri) is the world's most critically endangered antelope. Its parasitic fauna has never been genetically characterised, raising questions about its possible role in the species' population decline. This study aimed to assess the presence of gastrointestinal parasites in hirolas and their transmission pathways.

Methods Thirty-one hirola faecal samples were examined using coprological methods. The identification of trematode and nematode species was performed by PCR amplification of the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS-2) and 18S ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) genes.

Results Trematode and nematode eggs were detected in five (16.1%) and 23 (74.2%) samples, respectively. The trematode sequence was identical to Cotylophoron cotylophorum, while the nematode sequence showed a 99.3% identity to Chabaudstrongylus ninhae (18S rRNA) and 99.4% identity to Cooperia curticei (ITS-2).

Limitations The sample size is relatively small; however, it represents a large portion of the extant hirola population at the year of sampling.

Conclusions A high percentage of the animals were infected by parasites whose presence may be associated with co-occurrence between hirolas and other ungulate species. Monitoring the parasite burden in local livestock may therefore be crucial for hirola conservation.