Assessing Variation in the Individual-Level Impacts of a Multihost Pathogen

Most pathogens infect more than one host species, and given infection, the individual-level impact they have varies among species. Nevertheless, variation in impacts of infection remains poorly characterised. Using impactful host-generalist ectoparasitic mite Sarcoptes scabiei (causing sarcoptic mange), we assessed pathogen by (1) compiling all documented S. across free-living (2) quantifying ranking (3) evaluating factors associated with impacts. We compiled from 77 spanning 31 different impacts, totalling 683 descriptions. The most common were those affecting skin, alopecia (130 descriptions), hyperkeratosis coverage (106). From these a standardised metric was generated for each species (average score (AIS) 0-1 range), as proxy virulence allowing quantitative comparison while accounting number types assessed. Japanese raccoon dog (Nyctereutes viverrinus) found to be impacted (AIS 0.899). applied inclusion criteria well-studied tended (26/27 AIS < 0.5). had relatively weak relationships predictor variables (methodological, phylogenetic, geographic). There tendency Diprotodontia, Artiodactyla, Carnivora taxa research focussed developed regions world. This study is first assessment multihost parasite. proposed methodology can other public health, animal welfare, conservation concern enables further address likely causes