Detection of zoonotic Cryptosporidium parvum in invasive beavers from southern Tierra del Fuego, Chile

Invasive beavers, a species introduced to a remote area of Tierra del Fuego in 1946, have contributed to important environmental degradation. Here, we propose that invasive beavers may also act as reservoirs of Cryptosporidium spp. in Patagonia, affecting native species, wildlife, and human health. We describe zoonotic Cryptosporidium parvum in beavers. Given mammals’ susceptibility to this parasite, the influence of beavers extends across colonized watersheds, contributing to broader exposure. Our findings confirmed the presence of this water-borne parasite in Karukinka Park, Tierra del Fuego, underscoring the potential role of this emblematic invasive species in spreading Cryptosporidium . This research addresses the complexities of molecular identification of this parasite and presents a case study on pathogen monitoring in invasive species within the One Health framework. It emphasizes the consequences of human-introduced exotic species on pristine, remote, and vulnerable insular ecosystems.