Genetic and biological insights intoin invasive black rats from southern Chile.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This study investigates the genetic variability ofin black rats (), a common tapeworm that infects cats and rodents worldwide. Despite its widespread presence and zoonotic potential, little is known about the genetic diversity of this parasite in the Americas. METHODS: We conducted DNA barcoding analysis using mitochondrial1 gene sequences using samples collected from 171 invasive wild black rats, captured in the temperate rainforest of Southern Chile. We also included two adult parasites isolated from road killed Kodkods (), a small felid species native to the Americas. RESULTS: Our findings revealed only two haplotypes, suggesting low genetic variability in a parasite that arrived in the Americas with the Spanish colonization. DISCUSSION: These haplotypes are more closely related to parasite populations from Peru, Africa, Australia, and Europe, suggesting an origin linked to the Spanish colonization, possibly from North Africa via the Canary Islands. The study also analyzed infection rates, parasite size, and their correlation with host body size, age, and weight, revealing significant patterns. These results provide new insights into the biogeography and genetic diversity of.in a new geographical area, enhancing our understanding of its evolutionary history.