A Survey on the Ectoparasites and Haemoparasites of Bats Trapped in Ogbunike Caves, Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

The survey of ectoparasites and haemoparasites of bats was carried out with 41 samples from Ogbunike Caves in Anambra State, Nigeria. The removal of Ectoparasites from the body of bats was carried out by brushing of the fur from the different region into a clean white calico material. To avoid damage to the morphology, the parasites brushed out were collected from the white calico material for examination using a pair of blunt forceps. The ectoparasites identified were Cimocidae (Bat bugs), Nycteribiidae (Bat flies), Ixoodes verertiliomis (Bat tick), Leptotrombidium spp. (Chigger mite larva) and Macronyssus spp. The haemoparasites were identified in the laboratory through parasitological diagnosis using Giemsa stained thin and thick films. The blood samples were subjected to a saline wet mount as well as microhaemocrit concentration technique. The haemoparasites identified were Plasmodium and Trypanosoma species. Statistical analysis using chi-square test showed a significant difference (P < 0.05) in prevalence of ectoparasite and haemoparasites between male and female bats. It is recommended that Cave visitors and tourists should cover themselves properly before entering the Caves.