Host-parasite dynamics and biogeographical distribution of nematode communities in insectivorous bats of Burkina Faso (West Africa)

---

Résumé

Insectivorous bats can become contaminated with helminths through their diet, potentially impacting their immune systems. This study represents the first survey conducted in Burkina Faso, focusing on nematodes in insectivorous bats across six sites. Bats were captured using mist-nets and sent to the laboratory for parasitological examination. The study was developed on 311 bats of five species captured: Mops condylurus, Mops midas, Pipistrellus nanulus, Rhinolophus alcyone, and Scotophilus leucogaster. A total of 247 parasites were identified in 22.83% of the bats examined, encompassing five species: Capillaria sp., Rictularia bovieri, Molinostrongylus sp., Parashistiostrongylus octacantus, and Physaloptera sp. R. bovieri and Molinostrongylus sp. were the most widespread; they were found in four host species. The analyses showed that sex and age class did not influence the presence of nematodes. The sex index of nematodes was 0.69. P. octacantus had the highest sex index (1.14) followed by R. bovieri (0.67). This study highlights the need for further research on bat nematodes to better understand the impact of these parasites on bat physiology.

Mots-clés

insectivorous bats, parasitic nematodes, helminths, host-parasite dynamics, biogeographic distribution, Capillaria, Physaloptera, Mops condylurus, Scotophilus leucogaster, age classes, Burkina Faso