Detection of Ancylostoma spp. In Didelphis albiventris (Marsupialia: Didelphidae): case report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18004/ieuna2709-0817/3117015384.2026Keywords:
opossum, wildlife, helminths, zoonosis, stool culture, one healthAbstract
Ancylostoma spp. infection is reported in juveniles of Didelphis albiventris (white-eared opossum) kept under human care after being rescued in San Lorenzo, Paraguay. Pools of feces from five juvenile specimens, all positive for parasitic forms, were analyzed. The samples were evaluated using the coproparasitological techniques of sodium chloride flotation and stool culture, observing eggs compatible with the order Strongylida. The larvae obtained in the stool culture were morphologically compatible with the filarioid stage (L3) of Ancylostoma spp. This finding constitutes the first report in Paraguay of the description of Ancylostoma spp. in D. albiventris from larvae obtained by stool culture, which reinforces the need to implement surveillance measures in synanthropic species that interact closely with domestic animals and humans. The identification of these helminths, of relevance in public health due to their zoonotic capacity, underscores the importance of integrating wildlife into disease monitoring and control systems under the One Health approach.
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