Nest ecology of blood parasites in the European roller and its ectoparasitic carnid fly.

摘要: Abstract Haemosporidian parasites are considered the most important vector-borne parasites. However, vector identity and ecology is unknown for such host–vector–parasite systems. In this study, we employ microscopic molecular analyses to examine haemosporidian prevalence in a migratory, cavity-nesting bird, European roller Coracias garrulus, its nidicolous blood-feeding ectoparasite Carnus hemapterus. This system unique that confined near-closed environment, contrast free-wandering of haematophagous dipterans as mosquitoes. Blood film analysis confirms previous works Haemoproteus widely prevalent adult rollers belong single species, coraciae. Leucocytozoon sp. Trypanosoma also detected at low intensities with technique. By means analysis, report first time Plasmodium presence C. garrulus. Based on PCR results, relatively less than (20% vs. 31%) rollers. contrast, prevalences show opposite trend flies: occurrence (62%) clearly predominates over (5%). A comparison between samples reveals significantly higher samples. Insect survey phylogenetic suggest Culicoides flies vectors, which appear readily transmit parasite southern Spain. study does not find support serve biological or mechanical vectors haemosporidians. spite this, ectoparasites, carnid flies, suitable model studies temporal dynamics avian haemosporidians present intensities.