IngentaConnect Infestation by the mite Harpirhynchus nidulans in the Bearded Tit...

Authors: Henry P-Y.¹; Poulin B.¹; Rousset F.²; Renaud F.³; Thomas F.³

Source: Bird Study, Volume 51, Number 1, 1 March 2004 , pp. 34-40(7)

Publisher: British Trust for Ornithology

Abstract:

Aims To describe the first reported infestation by the skin-dweller mite Harpirhynchus nidulans in Bearded Tits Panurus biarmicus and for the Timaliidae family, to detect possible fitness costs for the host and to determine the distribution of the parasite within the distribution range of the host.

Methods Parasites were identified using a microscope. Wing-length and body mass were recorded on both uninfected and infected birds captured at different times during the year. We also considered historical data, and contact was made with 32 European ringing stations to identify the distribution range of the parasite.

Results Subcutaneous reproduction of the mite Harpirhynchus nidulans induced the development of voluminous dermal nodules in Panurus biarmicus. There were no differences in body mass or wing-length with respect to infestation. In the south of France, prevalence changed from 10.6% in spring to 4.7% in autumn. Both sexes are equally parasitized. Occurrence of dermal cysts is reported from several southern European populations of Bearded Tits, whereas it seems to be absent from northern latitudes.

Conclusion The occurrence of a Harpirhynchus mite in wild bird populations is reported for the first time. We consider aspects of its biology, host–parasite system, host-specificity, co-adaptation of the mite reproductive cycle to the social dynamics of its host and metapopulational host–parasite dynamics.

Keywords: Harpirhyncus; Panurus; parasite; mite; Bearded Tit

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat, le Sambuc, F-13200 Arles, France 2: Laboratoire Génétique et Environnement, Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution de Montpellier, Université de Montpellier II, Place E. Bataillon, F-34095 Montpellier Cedex 5, France 3: C.E.P.M., I.R.D. Montpellier, 911 avenue du Val de Montferrand, Parc Agropolis, F-34032 Montpellier Cedex 1, France

Infestation by the mite Harpirhynchus nidulans in the Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus: Capsule Mites sometimes induced voluminous subcutaneous cysts in featherless parts.