Detection of Babesia and Theileria parasites in white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum) in the Kruger National Park, and their relation to anaemia

Abstract

As part of the larger survey to map the geographical distribution of Babesia and Theileria parasites in the Southern African rhinoceros population, white rhinoceroses were sampled during routine immobilizations in the Kruger National Park. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Reverse Line Blot (RLB) hybridization assays were used to screen for the presence of haemoprotozoa and complete blood counts were used to assess associated changes in clinical parameters. Of the 195 rhinoceroses sampled, 36.4% tested positive for the presence of Theileria bicornis, with no significant change in the haematological parameters measured. None of the rhinoceroses sampled tested positive for Babesia bicornis, the parasite linked to mortalities in black rhinoceroses. Copyright