Host and habitat shape ectoparasite diversity on and (Muridae).

and are commensal rodent species endemic to Africa. A recent taxonomic revision within leaves the parasite–host list of questionable and that of incomplete. The current study aimed to develop a better understanding of the ectoparasite diversity associated with the 2 distinct but closely related rodent species and to explore the influence of host and habitat type on ectoparasite infestations.

Ectoparasites associated with the Bushveld gerbil () and the role of the host and habitat in shaping ectoparasite diversity and infestations.

Rodents are known hosts for various ectoparasite taxa such as fleas, lice, ticks and mites. South Africa is recognized for its animal diversity, yet little is published about the parasite diversity associated with wild rodent species. By focusing on a wildlife-human/domestic animal interface, the study aims to record ectoparasite diversity and levels of infestations of the Bushveld gerbil, , and to establish the relationship between ectoparasite infestation parameters and host- and habitat factors.

Ectoparasitic community of the Mahali mole-rat, Cryptomys hottentotus mahali: potential host for vectors of medical importance in South Africa.

Background: The endemic rodent family of Bathyergidae in Africa, particularly South Africa, are understudied as reservoirs of diseases of significant medical importance. Considering the diversity and wide distribution of African mole-rats in South Africa, many of these bathyergids could act as carriers of zoonoses.

Methods: The present study assessed the ectoparasite community of the Mahali mole-rat (Cryptomys hottentotus mahali).

Birds Mediate a Fungus-Mite Mutualism.

Mutualisms between ophiostomatoid fungi and arthropods have been well documented. These fungi commonly aid arthropod nutrition and, in turn, are transported to new niches by these arthropods. The inflorescences of Protea trees provide a niche for a unique assemblage of ophiostomatoid fungi.

The Namaqua rock mouse (Micaelamys namaquensis) as a potential reservoir and host of arthropod vectors of diseases of medical and veterinary importance in South Africa.

Background: The role of endemic murid rodents as hosts of arthropod vectors of diseases of medical and veterinary significance is well established in the northern hemisphere. In contrast, endemic murids are comparatively understudied as vector hosts in Africa, particularly in South Africa. Considering the great rodent diversity in South Africa, many of which may occur as human commensals, this is unwarranted.

Epifaunistic arthropod parasites of the four-striped mouse, Rhabdomys pumilio, in the Western Cape Province, South Africa.

Flea, lice, mite, and tick species associated with 510 Rhabdomys pumilio were collected at 9 localities in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. The aims of the study were first to quantify the species richness, prevalence, and relative mean intensity of infestation of epifaunistic arthropod species associated with R. pumilio, and second to determine temporal variations in the mean abundance of the parasitic arthropods.