Arthropods and helminths in springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis) at Benfontein, Kimberley

Abstract

From July 1979 - December 1980, 48 springbok were culled for a parasite survey at Benfontein. Lice were the dominant parasites and reached a peak in September. Damalinia antidorcus, Linognathus antidorcitis, Linognathus armatus and Linognathus euchore were the most prevalent species, nymphs in most cases outnumbering adults. During the winter months, 2nd and 3rd instar Rhinoestrus antidorcitis and R. vanzyli (nasal botflies) were present. The number of helminths reached a peak in January and then fell, secondary peaks being recorded through autumn, winter and spring, but a rise in numbers occurred the following December. Paracooperia serrata, Trichostrongylus spp., Strongyloides spp., Cooperioides antidorca and Longistrongylus sabie adults were dominant. Fourth stage larvae (L₄) of Ostertagia outnumbered adult Ostertagia hamata, but L₄ of Trichostrongylus spp. were less plentiful than adults of this genus. Good spring and summer rains (414,6 mm from October-March) were probably responsible for mean total burdens exceeding 10 000 in January and April.