Ectoparasites (Ixodida and Siphonaptera) from Argentina with new host and distributional records on wild mammals

Abstract

Mammals harbor a rich fauna of ectoparasites representing various Arthropoda, many of which are important vectors for diseases affecting both humans and domestic animals. The aim of this research is to report fleas and ticks from wild mammals in several Argentine provinces. Our records include ticks and fleas associated with 20 species of mammals belonging to five orders (Didelphimorphia, Cingulata, Chiroptera, Rodentia, and Carnivora). A total of 24 species of ectoparasites were examined, including four tick species and 20 fleas, either species or subspecies. Eight new flea-rodent associations have been recorded. Two species of flea have been recorded for the first time in Formosa province, two in Mendoza province, one in Salta province, and four in Santa Fe province. These results provide the basis for understanding parasite-host relationships and their potential impacts on animal health.