Ectoparasite-borneandin Chilean populations of: prevalence, genetic diversity and environmental associations.

Abstract

is a known reservoir of zoonotic pathogens, includingand, transmitted by ectoparasites such as fleas, mites, lice and ticks. The circulation ofandin these vectors in Chile remains poorly characterized. To evaluate the association between ectoparasite abundance, prevalence and diversity (including lice, fleas, mites and ticks) and the presence ofandwithin ectoparasites collected fromacross different anthropogenic gradients in Chile, a total of 1,339 ectoparasites were collected from 411 individuals across 27 localities. Ectoparasites were identified morphologically, and molecular detection of bacteria was performed using conventional and qPCR, targeting multiple genetic markers. Haplotype diversity and phylogenetic relationships were assessed.andDNA were detected in fleas, ticks, mites and lice of, with prevalence values reported separately for pooled and individually analysed ectoparasites.andwere identified.was confirmed in multiple ectoparasite groups. High haplotype diversity was observed inbut not in. Urbanization and tick prevalence were negatively associated withoccurrence; flea and tick prevalences were negatively associated withand their ectoparasites harbour a diverse range of potentially zoonoticandspecies. These findings highlight the need for integrated surveillance and vector control strategies, especially in areas with variable human-wildlife interaction.