Do ectoparasites of the slow loris Nycticebus pygmaeus, pose a danger to humans?

Abstract Staff working with nocturnal mammals at Poznań Zoo, noticed erythematous bite marks on their hands and parts of necks. No perpetrators were immediately obvious, but the experienced mainly by persons caring for slow loris Nycticebus pygmaeus . The purpose this study was to collect ectoparasites from four N. , identify species involved ascertain whether they carry any pathogenic organisms that might pose a health risk people who have been bitten. A total 51 Ornithonyssus bacoti (Mesostigmata: Macronyssidae) mites collected coats loris, 37 which used molecular analysis determine if carrying disease-causing organisms. DNA extracted screened candidate pathogens including Babesia spp. Rickettsia spp., none identified. authors suspect because zoo differs in its sanitary veterinary conditions those found nature, results obtained here may differ markedly existing natural environment. Although we cannot be certain stage did not other addition detectable primers used, reaction likely reflects response secretions rather than transmitted pathogens.